Perez reacts to bold 2026 prediction linking him with Hamilton

Symonds served as Formula 1’s chief technical officer from 2017 to 2024, giving him vast experience and insight into the preparation of the upcoming 2026 regulations. He has now joined Cadillac F1 as a technical advisor.

On The F1 Show, Sky Sports reporter Craig Slater revealed that Symonds told Perez the new technical rules, which come into force next year, should play to the strengths of both him and Hamilton.

Hamilton, meanwhile, has struggled under the current regulations since they were introduced in 2022. The difficulties were clear during his final years at Mercedes and have only grown more evident following his move to Ferrari at the start of this season.

In his response, Perez primarily defended Hamilton: “I think this era of cars that we’re currently in, with the ground effect cars, it’s been tricky.''

The Mexican struggled, especially in his last year at Red Bull Racing with his RB20. Hence, stellar performances often go missing.

Perez expects Hamilton to find his way back to the top again: ''Obviously, he’s a fantastic driver. And for sure, he’ll figure it out. I think we’ve seen it with many different drivers, that it’s all about adapting a car into a driving style that sometimes it just takes a little bit longer than others.”

For himself, the Mexican also has high expectations: “I’ve done well in previous eras. So yeah, I do expect that the new regulations will suit my style.”