Andretti Confident Hamilton Can Win Eighth Title Amid Ferrari Challenges
Mario Andretti believes Lewis Hamilton can still secure his eighth title despite a tough 2025 season. The F1 legend says Hamilton's talent remains undeniable, even as Ferrari faces engine regulation hurdles against rivals.
Lewis Hamilton faced a disheartening 2025 season, struggling for pace at Ferrari and sparking retirement discussions among analysts. However, 1978 world champion Mario Andretti is refusing to count the seven-time champion out, firmly backing him to secure a historic eighth title despite the recent setbacks.
Why it matters:
Hamilton's high-profile switch to Ferrari was intended to be the crowning achievement of a legendary career, yet early struggles have cast doubt on the project's immediate competitiveness. Andretti's endorsement highlights the enduring respect for Hamilton's raw speed and experience, suggesting that the 41-year-old still possesses the capability to overturn the grid's hierarchy if the machinery allows.
The details:
- Undeniable Talent: In an exclusive with GPblog, Andretti emphasized that writing off Hamilton would be a mistake given his track record. "I don't think you could ever count him out," Andretti stated, affirming that a championship is "absolutely" still possible for the Briton if his desire remains.
- Technical Disadvantage: The Scuderia is reportedly at a disadvantage regarding power unit regulations. Unlike Mercedes and Red Bull Ford, Ferrari does not currently utilize a specific engine "trick" that rivals have exploited for performance gains.
- Regulatory Battle: Ferrari is actively lobbying the FIA to ban these rival innovations. Without regulatory intervention, Hamilton may face an uphill battle in 2026, fighting a performance deficit before the season even begins.
What's next:
Ferrari is set to unveil their 2026 contender on January 23, a critical moment that will reveal the team's response to the regulatory landscape. While the engine situation poses a significant threat, Andretti’s confidence suggests that if Ferrari can close the technical gap, Hamilton’s experience could be the deciding factor in the title fight.