Bernie Ecclestone has voiced his harsh opinion on Lewis Hamilton’s ongoing difficulties with Ferrari this Formula 1 season, describing the situation as “embarrassing.” Hamilton’s highly anticipated move to Ferrari in 2025, viewed as his final attempt to secure an eighth world championship, has failed to meet expectations, prompting debate about his future in the sport amid persistent Lewis Hamilton Ferrari struggles.
Ferrari, the oldest and most storied team in Formula 1, was expected to reclaim its position at the top of the sport. However, despite finishing close behind McLaren in the Constructors’ Championship last year, Ferrari has yet to secure a race victory this season, with second place at Monaco by Lando Norris signaling the nearest glimpse of success. Meanwhile, Hamilton’s form has fallen short compared to his teammate Charles Leclerc, who continues to dominate inside the Scuderia garage.
Challenges Faced by Hamilton in His New Role at Ferrari
Hamilton’s transition from Mercedes to Ferrari reignited hopes of a championship pursuit, considering Ferrari’s rich legacy that includes Michael Schumacher’s five titles with the team. The British driver, a seven-time world champion, joined a line of past champions like Alain Prost, Fernando Alonso, and Sebastian Vettel who sought glory at Maranello.
Nevertheless, the 2024 season has exposed significant hurdles. Hamilton’s struggles have drawn attention, especially after a demoralized performance in Hungary where he raised doubts about continuing after the summer break. Despite recovering from this low point, his results have remained disappointing, potentially marking the first season of his career without a podium finish.
Ecclestone, once the powerful figurehead of Formula 1, has not held back in his assessment, suggesting Hamilton should consider retirement after 19 seasons in the sport. Addressing the current Ferrari situation, Ecclestone remarked,
“The most embarrassing thing, in my opinion, for Lewis and Ferrari is that they thought he could do all the things that were necessary,”
Bernie Ecclestone said.
“You must be disappointed that what was supposed to be delivered was not delivered.”
He stressed the risk of Hamilton’s achievements fading from memory if he continues without improvement.
“The danger that – if he continues for another year or a year and a half and hasn’t gotten better by then – people will forget him and his achievements.”
Hamilton’s Career Milestones and Off-Track Contributions
Lewis Hamilton entered Formula 1 in 2007 with McLaren, immediately challenging established stars such as Fernando Alonso. Over 19 seasons, Hamilton has taken part in 372 races, accumulated 105 wins, and achieved 104 pole positions, alongside seven world championships and three runner-up finishes. This places him among the sport’s all-time greats, second only to Alonso as one of the elder statesmen currently racing, with Alonso driving for Aston Martin.
Beyond the track, Hamilton has been a prominent figure through his philanthropic work, fighting for diversity, environmental causes, and animal rights. His Lewis Hamilton Foundation, established in 2008, supports numerous charities, demonstrating his commitment to social issues. Expanding his reach into entertainment, Hamilton has also ventured into filmmaking via Dawn Apollo Films, contributing to the production of the recent F1 movie and exploring further projects.
Ecclestone pointed to these outside pursuits as factors potentially affecting Hamilton’s focus and performance in Formula 1.
“You’re getting tired, and Formula 1 is no longer the only thing in his life,”
Ecclestone noted.
“I think he’s lost his focus. Twenty years is a long time, and we now have a lot of young drivers in F1.”
The Road Ahead for Hamilton and Ferrari Amid Upcoming Regulation Changes
Despite the setbacks this season, Hamilton remains under contract with Ferrari through the end of 2025. His future within the team will be closely tied to how Ferrari adapts to major regulation changes set for 2026. These changes will eliminate the current ground effect designs, introduce a flat bottom for the cars, increase electrical energy use, and expand moveable aerodynamics—all factors that promise to reshape the competitive landscape.
As teams pour resources into their 2026 development programs, Ferrari’s success in navigating these technical shifts will significantly influence Hamilton’s final chapters in Formula 1. The arrival of these sweeping rules may offer Hamilton the opportunity to regain his competitive edge or, alternatively, highlight the struggles that have so far defined his time with the Scuderia.
Hamilton’s performance over the coming seasons will be critical, not only for his legacy but also for Ferrari’s longstanding ambition to return to championship-winning form.
