Lewis Hamilton’s inaugural season with Ferrari in 2025 was fraught with challenges, leaving the seven-time world champion contemplating his future in Formula One. After a promising start, Hamilton’s year ended without a single podium finish, marking a significant low point in his illustrious 19-year career in the sport.
Hamilton joined Ferrari in early 2024, following two consecutive winless seasons with Mercedes. His first race with the Scuderia brought some optimism as he won the F1 Sprint in China from pole position. However, this early success did not translate into consistent performance. Over the course of 24 Grands Prix and six Sprints, Hamilton amassed only 156 points, finishing sixth in the standings. This total represents his lowest under the current scoring system established in 2010. In stark contrast, teammate Charles Leclerc secured seven podiums and ended the season with 242 points.
Ferrari’s Leadership Evaluates Future Options
As the 2026 season approaches, Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur is reportedly considering potential replacements for Hamilton. The team is said to be monitoring drivers such as Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri from McLaren, as well as Oliver Bearman‘s progress at Haas. Hamilton’s hopes for the upcoming season hinge on new regulations that could provide him with a car more suited to his driving style. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, if Hamilton does not improve his performance, he might contemplate leaving Formula One altogether.
Hamilton’s struggles over the past season were evident, as he appeared increasingly disheartened throughout the year. At the Hungarian Grand Prix, he qualified in 12th place, with Leclerc taking pole position, leading Hamilton to suggest that Ferrari might benefit from a different driver. This was one of nine instances where he failed to advance to Q3 during the season, further highlighting his difficulties.
Following the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, where he retired due to damage from contact with Alpine’s Franco Colapinto, Hamilton described his experience at Ferrari as a “nightmare.” The challenges culminated when he qualified last on merit for the first time in his career at the Las Vegas Grand Prix. As the season drew to a close, Hamilton’s performances did not improve. He exited Q1 in each of the final three races—Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi—and only managed one finish better than sixth in the last dozen Grands Prix, achieving a fourth-place result in Texas.
The 2026 season now stands as a crucial juncture for Hamilton. Whether he can reverse the narrative of a disappointing 2025 and restore his competitive edge remains to be seen. As he contemplates his next steps, the racing world watches closely to see if Hamilton can reclaim the glory that has defined his remarkable career.
