Lewis Hamilton’s future in Formula 1 is uncertain if he does not return from the 2025 mid-season break with renewed motivation, according to former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner. Steiner suggests that Hamilton has numerous interests outside racing, which could make continuing in F1 unnecessary if he struggles to perform. Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari has so far been underwhelming, falling short of expectations set for a seven-time world champion at the Italian team.
Hamilton began his first season with Ferrari without a podium finish and entered the summer break trailing his Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc by 42 points. His poor showing at the Hungarian Grand Prix, where he qualified only in 12th place and finished the race without improvement, was particularly disheartening. After the race, Hamilton controversially suggested that Ferrari should consider replacing him, describing his own performance as “useless.”
When asked about his participation in the Dutch Grand Prix immediately following the summer break, Hamilton stated,
I look forward to coming back… Hopefully I will be back, yeah.
—Lewis Hamilton
Insights from Guenther Steiner on Hamilton’s challenges
In an interview with Web.de, Guenther Steiner expressed that Hamilton has not lived up to the high expectations set when he joined Ferrari from Mercedes. Steiner believes Hamilton has lost his self-confidence, which is essential for performing at an elite level. Reflecting on the initial excitement surrounding Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, Steiner said,
He has lost his self-confidence. If you no longer believe in yourself, you cannot perform,
—Guenther Steiner
He added,
Just remember: when his move to Ferrari was announced, there was huge hype. For me too. The seven-time World Champion at Scuderia, it sounded like a fairy tale. And of course, he had high expectations of himself. But when reality doesn’t live up to expectations, you lose confidence in yourself.
—Guenther Steiner
Hamilton turned 40 just before the 2025 season began and, despite his age being a factor, Steiner acknowledged that Hamilton remains in excellent physical condition. He stated,
he can definitely still drive at a good level for a few more years.
—Guenther Steiner
However, the driver’s harsh self-critiques, including at Hungary, echo sentiments expressed during his difficult final season with Mercedes in 2024. Steiner cautioned Hamilton with these words:
But if you no longer enjoy it, if you realise you’re just struggling, then there’s no point,
and
Then it’s better to say: I tried, it didn’t work, and I’m quitting.
—Guenther Steiner
Legacy and decisions ahead in Formula 1
Lewis Hamilton is recognized as one of the most successful drivers in F1 history, matching Michael Schumacher with seven world championships and holding records for the most wins, poles, and podium finishes. Steiner believes that if Hamilton does not regain his mental focus and performance after the upcoming three-week summer break, he may decide to retire and pursue other ventures.
Hamilton has expanded his interests well beyond racing, including film, fashion, and co-ownership of Almave, a non-alcoholic spirit company. Despite a recent setback as his vegan burger business filed for liquidation, these projects offer alternatives to life in Formula 1. Steiner commented on Hamilton’s mindset, saying,
I think the summer break will be a time for reflection for him,
and continued,
Maybe he’ll come back more relaxed after the break and his performance will improve.
He then concluded,
But maybe not, and then I could well imagine him saying at the end of the year: ‘That’s it. I’m not putting myself through this for another year.’
Steiner highlighted Hamilton’s business success and independence, noting,
He has many interests outside of Formula 1; he is a brand in his own right. Many drivers need F1 as a platform. Lewis no longer needs that. And that’s exactly what makes it easier for him to call it quits.
—Guenther Steiner
Comparing Hamilton and Leclerc’s performance in 2025
The 2025 season also features a close rivalry between Ferrari teammates Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc. Leclerc has consistently outperformed Hamilton, including securing his and Ferrari’s first pole position of the year at Hungary, while Hamilton struggled. Despite this, Hamilton’s efforts related to the 2026 season show his commitment to improving his situation with the team, which involves submitting documents aimed at planning a better future.
Though rumors suggested these documents were attempts to alter team dynamics or undermine Leclerc, Hamilton has denied such intentions. Still, Hamilton’s difficulties adapting to the Ferrari SF-25 car have been apparent.
Steiner’s perspective on Hamilton’s struggles and car performance
Guenther Steiner emphasized that while the car always influences a driver’s performance, top drivers must manage the challenges presented by their machinery. He remarked,
If a car is difficult to drive in certain areas, then it is up to the driver to adapt, not the other way around. The car is good. I wouldn’t look for excuses for Lewis.
—Guenther Steiner
Hamilton’s current contract with Ferrari reportedly extends through the end of 2026, leaving time for potential improvement, but the pressure is mounting for him to demonstrate his continued value to the team before the contract expires.
