Hamilton Takes First Ferrari Win in Barcelona After Two-Year Drought

Lewis Hamilton won his first race for Ferrari on Sunday in Barcelona, ending a two-year victoryless run and delivering a British podium sweep. The seven-time world champion had not won since the Belgian Grand Prix in 2024, when he was still driving for Mercedes.

Hamilton, 41, became the seventh-oldest Formula 1 race winner in history. Ferrari’s strategy helped him, especially a well-timed virtual safety car in the middle of the race that gave him a key advantage over his rivals. His pace and tire management were described as excellent throughout the race.

The finish turned dramatic in the closing laps when Kimi Antonelli retired with a technical engine problem just five laps from the end, moments after overtaking his teammate George Russell in a tight fight for second place. Antonelli’s retirement promoted Russell to second, while Lando Norris of McLaren finished third, completing the first all-British podium in the series since 1968.

After the race, Hamilton said over the team radio, “You helped me make this dream come true, and I can’t thank you enough. I’m so proud of everyone.” The result cut his gap to Antonelli in the championship standings to 41 points, with the European leg of the season set to continue in Austria later this month.