Lewis Hamilton has called for transformation after describing his latest Formula 1 season as ‘very draining,’ sharing his thoughts with fans during a much-needed post-season break. As the seven-time world champion leaves behind a challenging first year with Ferrari that saw no podium finishes, Hamilton is focussing on renewal, stating that
“the time for change is now.”
For Hamilton, 2025 marked his debut year driving for Ferrari, a season that proved uniquely demanding as both he and the team redirected their attention toward a major overhaul for 2026. Throughout the year, Hamilton navigated the pressures of an extended 24-race calendar—a record for Formula 1—and the increasingly narrow off-season that is giving drivers little opportunity for rest before pre-season commitments resume. While his teammate Charles Leclerc outperformed him in the team’s internal standings, Hamilton has openly acknowledged these results as a starting point for self-improvement, casting an optimistic eye toward fresh opportunities in the coming season.
During the winter holidays, Hamilton celebrated his 41st birthday with a snowboarding trip, using the occasion to reflect on his year. He spoke candidly on social media about the intense pace of life as an F1 driver and the value of stepping back to recharge personally and professionally, all while reinforcing his gratitude for cherished time spent with family and friends.
Sharing Inspiration and Looking Forward
Hamilton addressed his global audience with a series of heartfelt messages, striving to motivate others facing similar challenges of change and renewal. In his words,
the time for change is now.
He expressed appreciation for the support he’s received, noting the replenishing effect of being disconnected from the relentless demands of racing.
“I’m incredibly grateful for this break. Time to disconnect, recharge and find a bit of inner peace. Time with family and friends replenishing with rest and good laughs has been everything I needed after a very draining year. In a world that moves so fast where we’re constantly being pulled in so many directions, truly disconnecting, and has been the most amazing feeling.”
– Lewis Hamilton, World Champion
Connecting his personal journey with broader reflections, Hamilton wrote that the shift in the zodiac calendar inspired his outlook, as F1 gears up for significant changes. He continued,
“I’m conscious that we’re entering the Year of the Horse and leaving behind the Year of the Snake. The time for change is now. Starting new routines, leaving behind unwanted patterns and working on growth.”
Hamilton encouraged his followers to take the first steps toward positive change, even if progress is gradual, and highlighted the importance of living life fully despite the turbulence in the world.
He added,
Be you and never forget who you are. I learnt that from many of you who told me this in 2025, and I’ll never forget again! Your support means the world to me, and I’m here for you too. You are never alone. Let’s take it one day at a time, one step at a time.
The Road Ahead: Ferrari and F1’s 2026 Shift
With his attention turning to what lies ahead, Hamilton is set to help steer Ferrari through a transformative period for Formula 1. The team plans to reveal the design of their 2026 car on January 23, just days before private shakedown testing begins at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, indicating that work is already underway on adapting to the radical regulation changes confronting drivers and teams in the near future.
Elsewhere in the paddock, driver line-ups and new power unit suppliers are being finalized for 2026, as Formula 1 prepares for one of its most significant technical updates in years. The anticipation across the grid is high, with both established stars like Hamilton and rising talents such as Charles Leclerc looking to make their mark in this next era of the sport.
Hamilton’s reflections underscore the physical and mental demands of Formula 1 but also highlight the resilience and hope that characterizes both himself and many within the racing community. As the “Lewis Hamilton time for change” message resonates with fans and competitors alike, the coming season promises renewal—both personally for the world champion and collectively for Ferrari and the wider F1 world.
