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Ferrari has replaced race engineer Riccardo Adami, who worked with lewis Hamilton during the seven-time Formula 1 champion’s challenging first season with the team. The announcement, made by Ferrari, did not mention hamilton by name, stating only that “The appointment of the new race engineer for car number 44 will be announced in due course.” Motorsport.com reported the change on January 15, 2026.
Communication Concerns and Hamilton’s First Season
The move follows speculation throughout the 2025 season regarding communication difficulties between Hamilton and Adami.Hamilton, 41, consistently denied any issues, maintaining a positive relationship with his engineer, despite instances during race broadcasts that suggested otherwise. The dynamic between a driver and their race engineer is crucial, involving real-time communication during races, collaborative car adjustments, and often, a supportive mentor-like relationship.
Hamilton spent 12 years with Mercedes, working exclusively with race engineer Peter Bonnington. His transition to Ferrari in 2025 proved tough, with Hamilton openly acknowledging the
