Bernie Ecclestone addressed rumors suggesting a potential team takeover involving himself and Christian Horner with a pointed comment about Lewis Hamilton. When informed by Sky F1 about the speculation that he and Horner might collaborate to buy a stake in Alpine, Ecclestone dismissed it, suggesting that Hamilton is more likely to win an eighth World Championship than such a takeover occurring.
The conversation about Hamilton’s future at Ferrari has intensified, as the seven-time World Champion struggles to make a strong impact in the 2025 season. Hamilton, who moved from Mercedes to Ferrari, aims to become the first driver to claim eight F1 titles, but doubts about that possibility are growing.
The Reality Behind Horner’s Red Bull Exit and Possible Next Steps
Following the British Grand Prix, Red Bull announced Christian Horner’s immediate departure after over twenty years as team principal, with Laurent Mekies stepping in as his replacement. Even before leaving Red Bull, Horner was linked to potential roles at Ferrari and Alpine, with reports indicating Ferrari’s interest earlier in the year.
After his exit, rumors about Horner’s next career move intensified, with many speculating whether he would remain in Formula 1. At the Hungarian Grand Prix, when asked about Horner’s future involvement in the sport, Ecclestone—who is a friend of Horner—expressed uncertainty.
I don’t know how or where, or whether he wants to. Probably doesn’t want to,
said Ecclestone. —Bernie Ecclestone
Because the position he really wanted at Red Bull was to own part of the team. Unless he gets somebody to put the money up to buy a team, can’t see it happening.
—Bernie Ecclestone
These remarks set the stage for questions about the Alpine takeover rumor, which Ecclestone answered with a smile and a brutal quip about Hamilton.
I think more chance of Lewis winning his eighth title than that happening,
said Ecclestone. —Bernie Ecclestone
Lewis Hamilton’s Struggles in the 2025 Season and Future at Ferrari
Lewis Hamilton began his Ferrari career in 2025 with the ambition of making history by securing an unprecedented eighth World Championship. However, the opening races have raised doubts, especially after underwhelming performances at the Belgian and Hungarian Grands Prix, where he struggled to match his new team-mate Charles Leclerc.
Hamilton’s recent social media activity deepened speculation about his career direction when he posted a video teasing a forthcoming announcement set for August 8, captioned:
We’ve struck the match. Now follow the smoke.
—Lewis Hamilton
Many fans interpreted this as a hint towards retirement after Hamilton described himself as “useless” following a disappointing qualifying where he started twelfth while Leclerc clinched pole position. Hamilton even suggested that Ferrari consider changing drivers, admitting that the situation at the team was tense and “not great.”
He qualified and finished the Hungarian Grand Prix in twelfth place and expressed uncertainty about his own return after the summer break, although he hoped to race at the upcoming Dutch Grand Prix.
Ecclestone’s Perspective on Hamilton’s Title Prospects and Career Longevity
When asked whether Hamilton still has a realistic chance of securing an eighth title, Ecclestone acknowledged the driver’s undeniable talent but implied that the chances are slim given current circumstances. He suggested that Hamilton might consider stepping aside soon for his own safety and well-being.
I think Lewis has done a fantastic job, he’s still super-talented. I think maybe he ought to sort of move over a little bit.
—Bernie Ecclestone
It would be terrible if something happened to him now. That’s what’s bad.
—Bernie Ecclestone
After the summer break, Hamilton trails Leclerc by 42 points in the Drivers’ Championship standings, highlighting the uphill battle he faces to remain competitive. This gap amplifies the uncertainty surrounding his ability to claim a historic eighth title and fuels ongoing discussions about his future in Formula 1.
Rivalry Intensifies Between Hamilton and Leclerc in the New Season
The 2025 season has seen a clear contrast between Lewis Hamilton and his Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc, who has outperformed Hamilton in both qualifying sessions and races. The ongoing head-to-head statistics reflect this trend, intensifying the pressure on Hamilton and prompting questions about Ferrari’s driver lineup.
This rivalry, coupled with Hamilton’s difficult start at Ferrari, adds to the speculation over whether he will extend his illustrious career or step away soon. The answers may become clearer as the season progresses beyond the summer break, when both drivers will aim to consolidate their championship hopes.
