Lewis Hamilton’s continuation with Ferrari beyond 2026 remains uncertain, with next season’s performance expected to determine his Formula 1 career path, according to Jenson Button. The seven-time World Champion joined Ferrari this year, marking a significant move from Mercedes that has drawn intense attention around his Lewis Hamilton Ferrari future.
Challenges and Mixed Fortunes in Hamilton’s First Year at Ferrari
Hamilton began the season under high expectations, fueled by speculation in Italian media that Ferrari’s SF-25 had gained half a second of performance. However, hopes of securing an eighth World Championship soon dimmed. His most notable achievement this year was a wire-to-wire victory in the Sprint race in China, where he also strongly defended against critics.
Despite this, positive moments were sparse. Over time, Hamilton’s frustrations grew as he openly criticized Ferrari’s strategic decisions and the lack of car upgrades. He even expressed harsh self-criticism, suggesting that Ferrari might need to consider a different driver because he felt “useless.” Reflecting his uncertainty, Hamilton stated,
“Hopefully I will be back [after the summer break].”
He did return at the Dutch Grand Prix, affirming his resolve by declaring,
“Fight’s not over, don’t count me out.”
Insights From Jenson Button on Hamilton’s Adaptation and Prospects
After the Singapore Grand Prix, where Hamilton had yet to reach the top step of the podium or a race win, former teammate Jenson Button weighed in on Hamilton’s adjustment period with Ferrari. He acknowledged flashes of brilliance, citing the Shanghai Sprint victory as a highlight. Button noted Hamilton has felt comfortable with the SF-25 at times but struggled with consistency throughout the year.
Button pointed out Hamilton’s lack of a familiar support team, unlike his time at Mercedes, where he raced surrounded by trusted personnel as a World Champion.
“It does take a bit of time,”
Button explained regarding the transition. Fans are encouraged not to expect Hamilton to give up after his debut season with Ferrari, especially with a new set of F1 regulations looming.
Button predicted that the incoming regulation changes for 2025, involving significant updates to cars and engines, will be pivotal in deciding Hamilton’s future.
“With the new regulation change, which is massive for next year, that’s when we’re going to see either Lewis at his best, or a Lewis that’s maybe going to walk away,”
said the 2009 World Champion.
Contractual Terms and Hamilton’s Control Over His Future
Hamilton signed a multi-year deal with Ferrari last year, reportedly covering two seasons with an option to extend into a third. According to Italian source La Gazzetta dello Sport and F1-Insider, this extension option resides solely with Hamilton, effectively giving him complete control over whether he races for Ferrari in 2027. This clause reportedly limits Ferrari’s influence over his future, even if his performance does not meet expectations.
This arrangement means Hamilton’s choice will ultimately determine if he remains with Ferrari or decides to step away from Formula 1. Given the challenges he has faced adapting to Ferrari’s car and team, the upcoming season and new technical regulations will be crucial in shaping the next chapter of his career.
Looking Ahead: The Impact of New Regulations on Hamilton’s Career
As Formula 1 prepares for a substantial overhaul with new cars and engines, the 2025 season serves as a turning point for not just Hamilton but the sport as a whole. His ability to perform under these new conditions will likely influence his decision to continue racing or retire.
Hamilton’s future with Ferrari also symbolizes the broader challenges experienced by drivers transitioning to new teams and adapting to evolving technical landscapes in Formula 1. His story is being closely watched by fans and analysts, especially considering his past success alongside football icons like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in cross-sport comparisons.
