F1 | Hamilton’s words raise speculation about a possible farewell to Ferrari
Lewis Hamilton ends 2025 in the most difficult way, and talk of a possible farewell to Ferrari has already emerged. His first season in red has been far below expectations, and in the Abu Dhabi paddock his comments immediately triggered debate. “2026? At the moment I’m not looking that far ahead,” he said. For many, that sentence sounded like a signal of a possible retirement. Hamilton, however, quickly dismissed the idea. “Retirement is out of the question,” he clarified, trying to put an end to increasingly persistent rumours.
Yet the topic remains wide open. Lewis Hamilton’s season has been extremely complicated. The results simply never arrived. Charles Leclerc often made the difference with the same car. The disappointment accumulated over the months has fueled doubts that the seven-time world champion is going through a very delicate transitional phase. Continuing at this level into 2026, as Formula 1 prepares to introduce a brand-new set of regulations, could have an impact on his image and his sporting legacy.
Herbert: “Hamilton’s words sound like a farewell speech”
Johnny Herbert, former driver and long-standing paddock voice, commented on the situation in strong terms while speaking to NewBettingSites. According to the Briton, Lewis Hamilton may be facing a moment of serious reflection. “His words sound like a farewell speech,” he stated. Johnny Herbert added that if Lewis Hamilton feels he no longer has the answer to get himself out of this crisis, it is understandable that he might be considering all possible options.
For Herbert, the issue is not only the lack of results. There is also an image problem. “He is damaging his legacy. As disappointing as Ferrari has been, Charles Leclerc still managed to perform much better than Lewis Hamilton. It’s clear that he is no longer the Lewis Hamilton of the past. I would be very surprised if he manages to return to his previous level,” he concluded.
A difficult crossroads before 2026
Ferrari has already shifted its focus to the new regulations. The Briton must now understand whether he wants — and whether he is able — to face another technical cycle with a team that struggled to protect him and bring out his value throughout 2025. The seven-time champion’s public words indicate a desire to fight back. However, his performances and the internal atmosphere describe a more fragile and complicated scenario.
The 2026 season represents a fresh start for everyone. For Lewis Hamilton, it could also be his last chance to rewrite the final chapter of his sporting story. For now, however, the road remains long. Ferrari will need to rebuild a truly competitive car. Lewis Hamilton will need to rediscover confidence, rhythm and identity.
The paddock will watch every test session, every interview and every lap, because when a legend of Hamilton’s stature stands at a crossroads, nothing happens in silence.
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