Lewis Hamilton’s difficult debut season with Ferrari in 2025 has sparked speculation about whether the seven-time Formula 1 world champion will remain with the Scuderia through the duration of his current contract, which reportedly extends until the end of 2027. Sources close to the team suggest that both Hamilton and Ferrari are far from satisfied with how his first year unfolded, although there is no immediate plan to terminate the deal.
Throughout the 2025 season, Lewis Hamilton struggled to adapt to the Ferrari SF-25, failing to secure a single podium. Charles Leclerc outperformed his Maranello teammate in 44 of the 56 sessions where both drivers were classified, highlighting the performance gap despite Hamilton’s extensive experience. Ferrari executives were reportedly disappointed, not only because of the car’s limitations but also due to the mismatch between expectations and results from one of the sport’s most accomplished drivers.
Internal sources suggest that some figures within Ferrari were frustrated by Lewis Hamilton’s recommendations for structural changes in the early months after his arrival. John Elkann, Ferrari’s chairman, allegedly instructed the drivers to “talk less,” which some interpret as being directed at the 40-year-old Hamilton. These tensions underscore the cultural and operational challenges Hamilton faced while integrating into the Maranello team.
Despite the strain, insiders confirm that Ferrari remains committed to Lewis Hamilton. Fred Vasseur and his inner circle reportedly continue to have confidence in the British driver, believing that he will be better suited to the new generation of Formula 1 cars once he completes the adaptation period. Financial considerations also reinforce this decision, as Ferrari is paying Lewis Hamilton an estimated £88 million for 2025, including image rights. Releasing him prematurely would require an enormous payout, making a forced dismissal unlikely.
Ferrari planning for the future without ruling out Hamilton
While Lewis Hamilton does not face the immediate threat of being released, Ferrari are actively planning for the future. Age and long-term team strategy are important factors, and the Scuderia has begun identifying potential replacements. Sources indicate that Ferrari have compiled a shortlist, with Haas driver Oliver Bearman, a Ferrari Academy graduate, emerging as a leading candidate.
Oliver Bearman impressed Ferrari during his debut season by adapting almost immediately to Formula 1, scoring 41 points—three more than his experienced teammate Esteban Ocon. His standout performance at the Mexico City Grand Prix, where he achieved a career-high fourth-place finish and overtook Max Verstappen in a pivotal drive, reportedly left Ferrari team management taking serious note of his potential. Ollie Bearman’s consistency and readiness to compete at the highest level have positioned him as a viable future Ferrari driver.
Haas insist that Oliver Bearman is committed to their team for the 2026 season, but they also appear keen to preserve a strong relationship with Ferrari. The plan has always been for Bearman to spend only two to three years with Haas before potentially moving to Maranello. With Ferrari supplying engines and suspension components to Ayao Komatsu’s team, Haas is seen as an ideal proving ground for the young driver.
Overall, insiders suggest that while Lewis Hamilton’s first season at Ferrari was challenging, there remains confidence that he can thrive in the team’s upcoming projects. At the same time, Ferrari are prudently preparing for the long-term succession of drivers, balancing respect for the Briton’s status with strategic planning for the future.
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