Lewis Hamilton’s debut season with Ferrari in Formula 1 has proven to be unexpectedly challenging, with four races still remaining in the 2025 calendar. For the first time in his illustrious career, the seven-time world champion faces the prospect of completing a full season without reaching the podium. Even with a record 24 races on the calendar, Lewis Hamilton is on course to score fewer points than in any previous campaign, marking a stark contrast to his usual dominance in F1.
It is increasingly clear that both Hamilton and Ferrari must make significant progress ahead of the 2026 regulation changes, or risk their partnership ending prematurely. The hype surrounding Lewis Hamilton’s move to Maranello was enormous, and a disappointing first season would represent a major setback for both the driver and the team.
Fans and insiders have speculated that Ferrari may be attributing some of the season’s struggles to their drivers. With Lewis Hamilton’s contract reportedly unlikely to be renewed beyond 2026, there is added pressure on him to perform. Charles Leclerc, who has yet to fully match Hamilton’s career achievements, also finds himself in a position where winning titles is crucial to maintaining his status within the team.
Concerning Body Language at Zandvoort
Lewis Hamilton’s body language at the Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort raised further questions about his mindset. According to journalist Jorge Peiro, the seven-time champion appeared noticeably withdrawn and tense during the post-summer break press conference. Jorge Peiro observed that Lewis Hamilton, wearing a buttoned-up jacket and headphones, kept his gaze down and offered brief, low-toned answers into the microphone, conveying a level of frustration and introspection that did not go unnoticed.
Observers have interpreted these signs as Ferrari’s concern over Lewis Hamilton’s morale and engagement, particularly given the high expectations surrounding his first season with the Scuderia. Comparisons to Michael Schumacher and Sebastian Vettel, who both won races in their opening seasons with Ferrari, further emphasize the pressure the British driver faces to adapt quickly and deliver results.
Challenges Ahead for Lewis Hamilton’s 2025 Podium Chances
Lewis Hamilton’s chances of ending his podium drought this season are complicated by the intense competition among drivers motivated to claim victory in the remaining races. With several championship contenders in a fierce battle, it appears that only a significant error or extraordinary performance could see Lewis Hamilton return to the top three.
Upcoming tracks may offer limited opportunities. The Brazilian Grand Prix could suit the Briton’s driving style, while circuits like Las Vegas, which he enjoyed last year, might play to his strengths. Conversely, races in Qatar and Abu Dhabi are less favorable for Ferrari’s current car performance. To secure a podium, Lewis Hamilton will need to execute near-perfect strategies and capitalize on any opportunities presented by rivals who have more to lose in the championship fight.
Leveraging Experience for Late-Season Success
Despite a difficult season, Lewis Hamilton possesses a comprehensive understanding of Ferrari’s car and operations. This knowledge could prove critical in maximizing performance in the final rounds of the 2025 season. By leveraging his experience, the seven-time champion has a chance to make a strong impression and potentially salvage a podium finish before the season concludes in December.
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