Lewis Hamilton says "the time for change is now" after a "very draining year" as he sent a message to his fans on his 41st birthday.

Hamilton turned 41 on Wednesday as he prepares for his second season at Ferrari following a disappointing first campaign where he failed to finish on the podium for the first time in his Formula 1 career.

The seven-time world champion said he would "unplug from the matrix" during the off-season but made a pledge and made a reference to Chinese New Year by saying we are "entering the Year of the Horse".

"Another return. I'm incredibly grateful for this break. Time to disconnect, recharge and find a bit of inner peace," he wrote on Instagram.

"Time with family and friends replenishing with rest and good laughs has been everything I needed after a very draining year. In a world that moves so fast where we're constantly being pulled in so many directions, truly disconnecting and has been the most amazing feeling.

"I'm conscious that we're entering the Year of the Horse and leaving behind the Year of the Snake. The time for change is now. Starting new routines, leaving behind unwanted patterns and working on growth."

During a challenging 2025, Hamilton described last year as "the worst season ever" and a "nightmare" as he finished sixth in the F1 Drivers' Championship.

Hamilton was largely outperformed by team-mate Charles Leclerc, who finished on the podium seven times, but appears hopeful for a stronger 2026.

He continued: "Let go of things that don't serve you. This can take time, there will be things you can't get rid of immediately, but it starts with the first step. Even though the world can seem like a mess, I hope that you're staying focused on living life to the fullest.

"Be you and never forget who you are. I learnt that from many of you who told me this in 2025, and I'll never forget again! Your support means the world to me, and I'm here for you too. You are never alone. Let's take it one day at a time, one step at a time."

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