Lewis Hamilton has been given a definitive goal to satisfy Ferrari’s ambitions for the remainder of the 2025 Formula 1 season. With just eight races left in the championship, the team has shifted its expectations, hoping the seven-time world champion can secure at least a podium finish before the season concludes.
Hamilton’s debut year with Ferrari has proven tough, as he has struggled to meet the lofty hopes placed upon him following his arrival. Although the move sparked excitement about a return to championship-winning form for the Scuderia, Hamilton has yet to consistently challenge for top spots. His sole podium-like result came from a victory in the Shanghai sprint race earlier this year, while teammate Charles Leclerc has impressively secured five podiums in 2025.
Ferrari’s Team Principal Optimistic About Hamilton’s Progress
Despite challenges, Ferrari’s team principal Fred Vasseur remains hopeful that Hamilton’s performance will improve as the season progresses. This optimism follows a difficult weekend at the Dutch Grand Prix where both Hamilton and Leclerc failed to finish. Vasseur highlighted Hamilton’s competitive drives before the race incidents as encouraging signs.
He was able to fight with Russell in Zandvoort [before the DNF], and to come back from P10 to the gearbox of Russell [in Monza],
Vasseur told reporters.
Vasseur compared Hamilton’s recent form to that of George Russell, noting Russell’s multiple podium finishes this season as a benchmark. The Ferrari chief confidently stated:
Yes, we can expect him to be on the podium.
The Road Ahead: Challenges and Competition
Hamilton’s clear target now is to reach the podium in one of the remaining eight races. However, the task remains formidable, as he faces stiff competition not only from Leclerc but also from both McLaren drivers and reigning champion Max Verstappen. These rivals continue to be strong contenders on the grid, making any podium result challenging to secure.
After the summer break, Hamilton acknowledged that he had taken time to reassess his situation at Ferrari, emphasizing a focus on regaining enjoyment in his racing. This mental reset aligns with the team’s desire for a turnaround in his results and consistency.
How Hamilton adapts to these challenges will be crucial for Ferrari’s hopes of reestablishing dominance in the sport. Securing podium finishes for their star driver would boost team morale and strengthen their contention for future championships, signaling progress in a season marked by a difficult start for both the driver and Scuderia.
