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Ferrari's Silverstone Surge: Hamilton Trusts Gut Over Code
11 Jul
Summary
- Hamilton ignored simulator recommendations for a trusted setup.
- Ferrari achieved its first double podium of the 2026 season.
- Leclerc switched to Hamilton's preferred setup for the win.

Lewis Hamilton has credited his own experience over simulator data for Ferrari's significant performance gains, which culminated in their first double podium of the 2026 Formula 1 season. Hamilton and his engineers chose to disregard the simulator's suggested setup at Silverstone, opting instead for a direction aligned with Hamilton's proven feel for the car.
This divergence from the simulator's recommendations proved successful, as Charles Leclerc later switched to a setup mirroring Hamilton's preference. This tactical decision was instrumental in Leclerc securing victory at Silverstone, with Hamilton completing the podium in third. Hamilton had previously voiced concerns about simulator inaccuracies after the Miami Grand Prix in May 2026.
In a separate viral moment, Hamilton briefly acknowledged a reported relationship with Kim Kardashian during a fan Q&A at Silverstone. Despite the off-track attention, he reiterated that Ferrari's performance and continued development remain his top priority as the team aims to close the championship gap.