F1 | David Brabham speculates Lewis Hamilton should have retired two years ago. David Brabham suggests Lewis Hamilton may have continued racing too long.

David Brabham, former F1 driver and respected figure in motorsport, has stirred debate with a provocative claim: he believes Lewis Hamilton should have retired a couple of years ago, while still at the top of his career. Brabham argues that Hamilton may now be attempting too much by trying to bring Ferrari back to the pinnacle of Formula 1, fearing that over time the seven-time world champion might struggle to reach the level he once dominated.

Hamilton’s difficult 2025 season

Currently sixth in the 2025 drivers’ standings with 121 points, Lewis Hamilton has yet to secure a podium finish with Ferrari this season. Brabham’s critique goes beyond mere performance, focusing on the long-term impact on Hamilton’s legacy. He warns that continuing to race without notable results could overshadow the extraordinary achievements Lewis Hamilton has already earned. According to David Brabham, if the next few seasons are marked by disappointments or underwhelming outcomes, fans and historians might remember the final phase of his career more than his incredible victories.

David Brabham’s warning on Lewis Hamilton’s legacy

In an exclusive interview with the Dutch media, Brabham shared his perspective on Lewis Hamilton’s current situation with Ferrari:

“From my point of view, he should have retired earlier. He is probably continuing a bit too long. I worry for him because he is in a challenging position with Ferrari, trying to bring them back to winning the championship. I understand why he believes he can do it, but only time will tell if he succeeds. In my opinion, he should have retired a couple of years ago, leaving as a champion. My concern is that he might not be able to reach the level he once had, and he could be remembered more for the last years of his career than for all he has already achieved, which is extraordinary and deserves respect. Unfortunately, if the final years don’t go as hoped, that could overshadow the memories of his successes. I hope he manages to succeed.”

Brabham’s comments highlight the tension between Lewis Hamilton’s ambition to restore Ferrari to championship-winning form and the risks of extending his career beyond his prime, emphasizing the delicate balance between legacy and ongoing competition in Formula 1.