Lewis Hamilton Ferrari struggles have dominated his much-anticipated move to Maranello in 2025, as the seasoned champion endured his most challenging season in nearly two decades of Formula One racing. After two difficult years without victories at Mercedes, Hamilton had high hopes when he switched to Ferrari in early 2024, but the trouble persisted, forcing questions about his long-term future in the sport.
Despite the initial optimism, Hamilton’s Ferrari tenure started with a glimmer of hope, claiming an F1 Sprint win in China after securing pole in the season’s second round. However, the momentum didn’t last—he went the entire season without standing on a Grand Prix podium, something that hadn’t happened since his entry into F1.
Throughout 24 Grands Prix and six Sprints, Hamilton collected only 156 points, finishing sixth in the overall standings. Under the current scoring system, this was his lowest points tally, a stark contrast to his teammate Charles Leclerc’s performance, who racked up 242 points and seven podiums, underscoring Hamilton’s ongoing difficulties.
Growing Uncertainty Over Hamilton’s Racing Career
The bleak 2025 campaign has fueled rumors inside Ferrari, with team boss Fred Vasseur reportedly exploring future driver options should changes become necessary. The Italian team is said to be observing drivers like Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri from McLaren, as well as monitoring Oliver Bearman’s progress at Haas, all as possible replacements if Hamilton were to step away.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Hamilton is hoping new technical regulations will give him the chance for a fresh start in a car better matched to his driving style. Yet, as reported by Gazzetta dello Sport, if results do not improve, Hamilton might consider ending his Formula 1 journey entirely, not just leaving Ferrari.
Amid persistent rumors, the Briton is eager to challenge perceptions formed after what he and many consider a ‘catastrophic’ year. Should next season also fail to deliver improvement, observers believe Hamilton may turn his attention to ambitions outside of motorsport altogether, leaving a remarkable chapter in F1 history at a crossroads.
Despair and Frustration Mark Hamilton’s Season
As the 2025 season dragged on, Hamilton’s disappointment became ever more visible. His struggles intensified after qualifying 12th in Hungary—while Ferrari teammate Leclerc took pole—a race that marked one of nine times he failed to reach Q3. In the aftermath, Hamilton hinted publicly that perhaps Ferrari would be better off with another driver, a remarkable admission for a man synonymous with success on the grid.
His challenges deepened after the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, where contact with Alpine’s Franco Colapinto forced him to retire due to damage. Speaking candidly afterward, Hamilton described his Ferrari campaign as “a nightmare,” openly acknowledging the toll recent months had taken on him.
Later in the year, at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Hamilton qualified last on merit—an unprecedented low point in his illustrious career. His difficulties continued right to the last races of 2025, as he narrowly avoided Q1 elimination in Abu Dhabi, Qatar, and Las Vegas, and only once managed to finish higher than sixth in the final twelve Grands Prix, taking fourth place in Texas.
What Hamilton’s Uncertain Future Means for Ferrari and F1
Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari struggles leave both the legendary team and the championship itself at a critical juncture, as the seven-time world champion’s possible departure would reshape the driver market and impact the competitive landscape. With rising stars like Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri, and Oliver Bearman in the mix, speculation will only intensify if 2026 does not bring the turnaround that Hamilton—and his fans—hope for. The coming season may well decide the final chapter of Hamilton’s storied Formula One career.
