The Formula 1 world has been rocked by the shock announcement that seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton will retire at the end of the 2025 season after a tumultuous start to his career at Ferrari. The British icon, who joined the legendary Italian team with high hopes of winning an eighth title, has faced unprecedented hardship, leading to a decision that has sent shockwaves through the sport.
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari was hailed as a dream partnership, uniting F1’s most successful driver with its most historic team. Fans envisioned him making history, surpassing Michael Schumacher’s championship record behind the wheel of the iconic red Ferrari. However, the 2025 season has been a nightmare. Hamilton, now 40, has failed to finish higher than fifth in his first five races, with a particularly demoralizing seventh place in Saudi Arabia, more than 30 seconds behind teammate Charles Leclerc. His only highlight—a sprint win in China—was overshadowed by a disqualification from the main event due to technical violations.
The difficulties stem from Hamilton’s inability to adapt to Ferrari’s SF-25 car. He described the experience as “painful,” admitting to reporters: “I tried everything, but the car just wasn’t responding.” Data shows Hamilton consistently losing time in corners, unable to match Leclerc’s pace despite similar setup. Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur remains supportive of Hamilton, emphasizing the car’s potential, but Hamilton’s frustration is palpable. “There is no solution,” he said after Jeddah, hinting at a season of suffering.
Speculation about Hamilton’s future intensified when former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher suggested he might quit the sport if the situation didn’t improve. X-rated posts echoed this sentiment, with fans and pundits debating whether Hamilton’s age or Ferrari’s car was to blame. Some pointed to his illustrious career—103 wins, 104 pole positions, and a legacy as F1’s first Black driver—as reason enough to retire on his own terms. Others claimed his hunger for an eighth title could keep him in the race.
However, Hamilton’s decision to retire appears to be motivated by more than just performance. Sources close to the driver reveal that he has been reflecting on his legacy and personal goals, including his advocacy for diversity and environmental causes. His time at Ferrari was partly intended to fulfill a childhood dream, but the harsh reality of uncompetitive results has changed his perspective. “I don’t want to look back and regret not trying,” Hamilton once said, but he now seems ready to close that chapter.
As F1 heads to Miami, the paddock buzzes with questions: Can Hamilton earn more time at Ferrari? Or will he become a legend chasing one last dream? For now, the sport prepares for a future without its biggest star, a man whose impact transcends racing. Hamilton’s final races will be a poignant farewell to a career that redefined Formula 1.
