Brundle warns: Hamilton's 'stats and reputation' fading at Ferrari
Martin Brundle suggests Lewis Hamilton's difficult first season at Ferrari, devoid of podiums, is eroding his statistical legacy and reputation. While Nico Rosberg argues Hamilton must continue with the project, the question looms over whether the seven-time champion can revive his title pursuit or if his career twilight has arrived.
Lewis Hamilton's debut season at Ferrari yielded zero podiums and a car incapable of winning, leading Martin Brundle to warn that the seven-time champion's "stats and reputation are not being enhanced" by his current struggles. The stark assessment raises questions about the final chapter of F1's most decorated driver as he heads toward the 2026 regulation reset.
Why it matters:
Hamilton's move to Ferrari was meant to be a legendary final act, a pursuit of an elusive eighth title with the sport's most iconic team. A season of Q1 exits and midfield battles instead risks redefining his legacy's closing stages, shifting the narrative from a triumphant chase to a gradual decline. How he and Ferrari respond will shape the perception of his final years in the sport.
The details:
- Martin Brundle, speaking on Sky F1, directly stated Hamilton's current performance at Ferrari is damaging his hard-earned statistical legacy and standing in the sport.
- Nico Rosberg countered, arguing Hamilton "has to continue" and cannot give up on the Ferrari project after only one difficult season, emphasizing the need to see if next year's car improves.
- Brundle's primary expectation is that Hamilton will wait to assess Ferrari's 2026 package, suggesting a decision on retirement would be more likely after another tough season in 2025.
- The underlying tension stems from a Ferrari SF-24 that was not a race-winning car, even in teammate Charles Leclerc's hands, leaving Hamilton without the tools to compete at the front.
The big picture:
Hamilton's first year in red has been a stark contrast to his dominant Mercedes era, placing him in an unfamiliar fight in the upper midfield. The situation puts immense pressure on Ferrari's 2025 car development to provide a platform for recovery before the major 2026 rules overhaul. For Hamilton, the challenge is no longer just beating a teammate but proving he can still extract peak performance from a sub-optimal car, a key marker of a champion's reputation.
What's next:
Hamilton has already begun work for 2025, participating in the post-season test in Abu Dhabi. All eyes will be on Ferrari's winter development and the launch of the 2025 challenger to see if it can offer Hamilton a genuine chance to return to the podium. His commitment and performance next season will be critical in silencing retirement talk and determining whether the dream of an eighth title with Ferrari remains a realistic goal or a fading ambition.