Lewis Hamilton determined to return stronger in 2026 despite struggles at Ferrari
Lewis Hamilton’s future in Formula 1 has been the subject of speculation as he endures a challenging first season with Ferrari. Heading into the final round of the 2025 season at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Hamilton faces the real possibility of ending his first year in red without a podium, a scenario unprecedented in his illustrious career.
Recent performances suggest that a podium finish this season is highly unlikely. Ferrari currently operate as a midfield team, according to Jamie Chadwick, and even if the SF-25 shows competitive pace at Yas Marina, Lewis Hamilton may struggle to capitalise. The seven-time world champion has been eliminated in Q1 in three of his last qualifying sessions and has failed to finish higher than seventh in six consecutive races. Meanwhile, teammate Charles Leclerc has claimed all seven of Ferrari’s podiums in 2025, underlining the gap within the team.
Ferrari management are reportedly evaluating Lewis Hamilton’s performance, and whispers suggest that the Scuderia could consider moving on after just one year, especially with academy talent Oliver Bearman impressing at Haas. Despite this, Sky Sports commentator David Croft has offered insight based on conversations with Lewis Hamilton and those close to him, indicating that the British driver remains committed to Ferrari and Formula 1.
Croft revealed that Lewis Hamilton is expected to return in 2026 with renewed focus, energy, and determination. While Lewis Hamilton himself described his 2025 campaign as a “nightmare” and admitted that he wasn’t looking forward to the following season, Croft suggests the veteran driver will use the off-season to regroup and come back stronger, particularly if Ferrari provide a competitive package.
Ted Kravitz has expressed concerns that Lewis Hamilton may not favour the 2026 Ferrari based on simulator tests, as the British driver’s smooth driving style appears at odds with the current ground-effect era machinery. However, there is hope that the end of the ground-effect regulations will better suit the seven-time F1 world champion natural driving characteristics.
Croft indicated that Lewis Hamilton is not considering retirement, stating that he is “coming back next year more energised, more focused, and more determined to leave this season behind and deliver his best for Ferrari.” Of course, his success will ultimately depend on Ferrari delivering a car capable of challenging for victories and championships in 2026.
Meanwhile, former drivers have weighed in on Lewis Hamilton’s prospects. Ralf Schumacher has suggested that the 40-year-old may struggle to adapt his driving style to the new regulations, which could limit his effectiveness in 2026. Max Verstappen also believes the Briton’s age may be a factor, noting that he is unlikely to gain speed compared to his younger competitors, while Charles Leclerc continues to improve at 28.
Despite these concerns, 1996 World Champion Damon Hill remains confident that Lewis Hamilton has another championship in him and could make history as the first eight-time Formula 1 World Champion. Yet Hill acknowledges that Lewis Hamilton’s title hopes hinge entirely on Ferrari producing a truly competitive 2026 car.
As Lewis Hamilton prepares for the next season, all eyes will be on Maranello to see if Ferrari can deliver the machinery to match the talent of the seven-time world champion. One thing is certain: the British driver is determined to bounce back, and the Formula 1 world will be watching closely.
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