Lewis Hamilton’s inaugural season with Ferrari in 2025 was marked by significant challenges, leading the veteran driver to contemplate his future in Formula 1. At 41 years old, Hamilton joined the Scuderia in early 2024 after experiencing two consecutive years without wins at Mercedes. Unfortunately, his first year in Maranello proved to be the most difficult of his illustrious 19-year career in the sport.
The season began with a glimmer of hope as Hamilton clinched victory in the F1 Sprint in China, achieving a pole position start. Yet, he was unable to maintain that momentum, finishing the year without a single podium for the first time in his career. Across 24 Grands Prix and six Sprints, Hamilton accumulated only 156 points, placing him sixth in the drivers’ standings. This total represents his lowest score under the current scoring system that has been in place since 2010. In stark contrast, teammate Charles Leclerc celebrated seven podium finishes and ended the season with 242 points.
Ferrari’s Future Considerations
Reports suggest that Ferrari’s team principal, Fred Vasseur, is already considering potential replacements for Hamilton should the 2026 season fail to show improvement. The team is reportedly monitoring drivers including Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri from McLaren, as well as Oliver Bearman, who is developing at Haas. Hamilton has expressed hope that the new regulations for 2026 will result in a car that better aligns with his driving style, offering a chance for redemption.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, if Hamilton cannot turn his fortunes around, he may look beyond Formula 1 entirely. The driver aims to shift the narrative surrounding his disappointing 2025 season, which many characterized as catastrophic. Should the upcoming year yield similar struggles, Hamilton’s focus could diversify toward aspirations far removed from both Ferrari and Formula 1.
Struggles Throughout the Season
Throughout the challenging 2025 season, Hamilton exhibited signs of frustration as he grappled with form. His struggles were highlighted by a qualifying performance in Hungary, where he started in 12th place while Leclerc took pole. Hamilton raised concerns about Ferrari’s driver lineup, hinting that a change might be beneficial. This incident was one of nine occasions where he failed to qualify for Q3.
Following his retirement due to damage incurred during contact with Alpine’s Franco Colapinto at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, Hamilton described his experience at Ferrari as a “nightmare.” His difficulties culminated in a last-place qualifying position at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, marking a career first. The latter stages of the season saw him miss Q1 exits in the final three races—Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi—managing only a fourth place finish in Texas, his best result in the last twelve Grands Prix.
As Hamilton prepares for the 2026 season, the pressure mounts. With Ferrari’s performance under scrutiny and potential changes looming, his future in F1 hangs in the balance. Ultimately, Hamilton’s next steps will depend on whether he can reclaim his former glory and alter the trajectory of his career.
