Lewis Hamilton has expressed disappointment with the current generation of Formula 1 machinery around Monaco’s challenging streets, describing the 2026 cars as “probably one of my least favourites” despite securing third place on the starting grid for Sunday’s race. The Ferrari driver’s criticism centers on the significantly reduced aerodynamic performance that has characterized this season’s lighter and narrower regulations.
The seven-time world champion highlighted the dramatic reduction in downforce as a primary concern, noting that despite cars carrying approximately 100 points less downforce this year, tire pressure requirements have increased substantially. Hamilton explained that teams previously operated at around 16 psi but now must run at 26-28 psi, with Monaco seeing pressures around 24 psi, creating what he described as a “step down of generation” in terms of available grip.
Reflecting on his extensive Monaco experience spanning multiple regulatory eras, Hamilton fondly recalled the 2007-2008 period when mechanical grip levels were substantially higher, making the racing “even more fun back then.” The British driver identified the 2020 season as potentially the optimal period for grip levels around the principality, suggesting that the current formula has moved away from what made Monaco racing most enjoyable.
Championship leader Max Verstappen, who will start second behind Kimi Antonelli, echoed Hamilton’s assessment while noting that Monaco’s unique layout combined with current car characteristics made him “feel like myself again” due to reduced emphasis on energy management. Antonelli appreciated returning to a traditional qualifying format where drivers could focus purely on maximum performance without constantly monitoring battery deployment strategies throughout their flying laps.