Following a difficult first year with Ferrari, a former Formula 1 team principal has outlined a potential timeline for Lewis Hamilton’s F1 retirement. As the sport approaches the summer break, speculation has grown about the future of the seven-time world champion amid his struggled adaptation to the new team and car.
Guenther Steiner, former Haas team principal, discussed Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari and his challenging season so far in an interview with Web.de. While Steiner expressed hope that Hamilton could improve his form after the break, he also suggested when the driver might consider stepping away from Formula 1.
Insights on Hamilton’s Challenges and Future in F1
Steiner noted that Hamilton had difficulties adjusting to the new ground-effect cars introduced recently. Looking ahead to the 2026 season, which promises even more significant changes with new cars and engines, Steiner said the competitive landscape remains uncertain.
“Lewis struggled with the new ground-effect cars from the start, and in 2026 there will be new cars, new engines, and no one knows who will be strong then,”
Steiner explained.
He added that Hamilton might attempt to continue for one more season but implied that if results did not improve, retirement could follow gradually rather than abruptly.
“Maybe he’ll say, ‘I’ll try, but if that doesn’t work either, then it’s over’. And not overnight: if he wanted to retire, he would give it plenty of time so the team could find a replacement.”
—Guenther Steiner, Former Haas Team Principal
Potential Candidates to Fill Hamilton’s Seat at Ferrari
Speculation about Hamilton’s retirement has naturally led to discussions regarding his possible successor at Ferrari. One of the notable names is Carlos Sainz, who Hamilton replaced in 2024. Sainz, now driving for Williams, has faced difficulties this season competing against teammate Alex Albon.
Despite his unexpected departure from Ferrari, Sainz has kept a positive relationship with the Scuderia, remaining open to a future return. Another candidate is Ferrari’s former junior driver Ollie Bearman, currently a rookie with Haas, though his initial performances have not yet impressed the paddock.
Attracting a high-caliber driver to Ferrari may prove challenging due to the team’s ongoing struggles and the fact that it has not secured a championship since 2008, leading some to view joining Ferrari as a difficult proposition.
Car Performance and Driver Adaptability Debated
When asked if Ferrari’s car contributed to Hamilton’s troubles, Steiner commented that while the car plays a role, top drivers must adjust to challenging machines.
“Of course, the car always plays a role. But this is Formula 1, and a top driver has to be able to handle what he’s given,”
Steiner stated.
“If a car is difficult to drive in certain areas, then it’s up to the driver to adapt, not the other way around. The car is good. I wouldn’t make any excuses for Lewis.”
—Guenther Steiner, Former Haas Team Principal
The Bigger Picture and What Lies Ahead for Hamilton
Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari was anticipated as a career-defining chapter, but his initial struggles have ignited widespread debate about his longevity in Formula 1. With rule changes on the horizon and team dynamics shifting, Hamilton’s future remains a central topic among fans and experts alike.
The proposed retirement timeline highlights the possibility that the 2026 season could determine whether Hamilton continues or decides to conclude an era. Meanwhile, Ferrari will face the challenge of identifying a suitable replacement who can restore the team’s winning momentum after years without a title.
