Lewis Hamilton's Tough F1 2025 Season: Is 2026 Worth It?
Lewis Hamilton's 2025 season with Ferrari has been unexpectedly tough, marked by a record-breaking podium drought and struggles to integrate with the team's unique operations. With Ferrari shifting focus to 2026's new regulations, the question looms: Will Hamilton's renowned resilience be enough to turn his fortunes around, or will his final F1 chapters be defined by this challenging period?
Lewis Hamilton's 2025 season at Scuderia Ferrari has been undeniably challenging, leading to natural speculation about his future in Formula 1 beyond 2026. Despite a career defined by unprecedented success, his current stint at Ferrari has been marked by a lack of podium finishes and a struggle to adapt to the team's unique operational style.
Why it matters:
Hamilton's move to Ferrari was touted as a bid for an eighth world title, aiming to cap off his illustrious career with a championship for the iconic Italian team. His current difficulties not only test his resolve but also raise questions about Ferrari's ability to provide a championship-winning package, especially with the team already shifting focus to the 2026 regulations. How he navigates this period will define the final chapter of one of F1's greatest drivers.
The Details:
- Hamilton has endured 23 races with Ferrari without a podium finish, marking the longest such streak for a driver at the Scuderia.
- This record puts his name in the less flattering parts of Ferrari's history books.
- Ferrari's Operational Style: The team is known for its peculiar operating methods, which have historically brought success but are now producing inconsistent results. Hamilton appears to be still adapting to these intricacies.
- SF-25 Development Halted: Team Principal Fred Vasseur confirmed that Ferrari ceased development on the SF-25 machinery since April 2025 to prioritize the 2026 car. This decision likely contributed to Hamilton's disappointing results by limiting mid-season performance gains.
- Historical Resilience: Hamilton has a proven track record of overcoming adversity, notably waiting until 2014 to secure his second title after his first in 2008 with McLaren.
What's next:
The upcoming 2026 season brings a major regulation overhaul, offering a fresh start and a potential reset for both Hamilton and Ferrari. This presents a critical opportunity for Hamilton to demonstrate his adaptability and for Ferrari to deliver a competitive package. Walking away before 2026 would mean missing a chance to compete under new rules, potentially leaving devoted fans with an unfulfilled ending. Hamilton's decision will likely hinge on the initial performance of the 2026 car and his assessment of Ferrari's long-term prospects under the new regulations.