The Formula 1 world was rocked by the bombshell news that seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton will call it quits after a turbulent start to his career at Ferrari at the end of the 2025 season. The British icon, who had joined the legendary Italian team with high hopes of an eighth title, faced unprecedented hardships, leading to a decision that sent shockwaves through the sport.
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari was celebrated as a dream match, combining F1’s most successful driver with its most traditional team. Fans dreamed he would make history and surpass Michael Schumacher’s championship record in the legendary Red Ferrari. However, the 2025 season was a nightmare. Hamilton, now 40, never managed higher than fifth in his first five races. His seventh place in Saudi Arabia was particularly disappointing, where he was more than 30 seconds behind teammate Charles Leclerc. His only highlight, a sprint win in China, was overshadowed by a disqualification in the feature race due to technical violations.
The difficulties resulted in Hamilton’s inability to adapt to the Ferrari SF-25 car. He described the experience as “painful” and admitted to reporters: “I tried everything, but the car just didn’t react.” Data shows that Hamilton consistently loses time in the corners and, despite similar setups, is unable to keep up with Leclerc’s pace. Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur remains steadfastly supportive and insists the car’s potential is there, but Hamilton’s frustration is clearly noticeable. “There is no solution,” he told Dschidda, indicating that a moment of suffering was imminent.
Speculation over Hamilton’s future increased when former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher indicated he could quit the sport if the situation did not improve. This view was also reflected in posts on X. Fans and pundits debated whether Hamilton’s age or the Ferrari car was to blame. Some pointed to his glamorous 103 career wins, 104 pole positions, and legacy as Formula 1’s first black driver as reason enough to retire on his terms. Others argued that his thirst could keep him in the race after an eighth title.
Hamilton’s decision to end his career doesn’t appear to be solely based on his performance. Sources close to the driver state that he has been thinking about his legacy and personal goals, including his commitment to diversity and environmental protection. His move to Ferrari was partly about fulfilling a childhood dream, but the harsh reality of uncompetitive results changed his perspective. “I don’t want to look back and regret not having tried it,” Hamilton once said, but now he seems ready to complete this chapter.
As F1 travels to Miami, questions loom in the paddock: can Hamilton salvage his time at Ferrari? Or will he go down in history as a legend chasing one last dream? The sport is currently preparing for a future without its biggest star, a man whose influence extends far beyond racing. Hamilton’s final races will be a poignant farewell to a career that has redefined Formula 1.
