Despite a past defined by fierce rivalry, Max Verstappen has shown solidarity with Lewis Hamilton over what has happened at Ferrari. The Briton’s 2025 Formula 1 season with the Scuderia has proved far more complicated than expected, and his struggles have also caught the attention of his historic rivals, including the Red Bull driver. The Dutchman did not hide his disappointment at seeing the seven-time world champion going through one of the most difficult periods of his Formula 1 career.
Hamilton began the year with high expectations following his move to Ferrari, but his debut season in red failed to deliver the results many had hoped for. For the first time in his career, the British driver finished a full season without securing a single podium, ending the championship 86 points behind his team-mate Charles Leclerc. A statistic that clearly reflects the challenges Lewis Hamilton faced at the wheel of the SF-25.
Throughout the season, Lewis Hamilton often appeared downbeat in post-session interviews, with his body language and radio tone further fuelling rumours of a possible early retirement from Formula 1, despite having a contract that runs until the end of next season. These signals did not go unnoticed by Max Verstappen.
Verstappen does not believe Hamilton will retire with Ferrari
“Well, straight and clear,” the Dutchman commented when speaking about his rival’s situation. “Obviously it hasn’t been a good season for him at Ferrari. You can notice it in everything, even in the team radio.” When the interviewer added that it is painful to see Lewis Hamilton in such conditions, Verstappen nodded without hesitation: “For me, yes, honestly. I don’t like seeing him like this.”
Despite the evident difficulties, the four-time world champion does not believe Lewis Hamilton is ready to walk away. “Retire? I don’t know, because I don’t think he is giving up. Lewis will definitely be there,” Verstappen explained, showing respect for a rival with whom he has shared some of the most intense battles of the modern Formula 1 era.
Lewis Hamilton, for his part, has repeatedly stated that he wants to continue racing beyond the end of his current contract and that he remains motivated to bounce back from a disappointing season. However, criticism and pressure are increasing, especially in light of his subdued performances and the direct comparison with Leclerc inside the Ferrari garage.
Verstappen’s words reveal a less predictable side of the relationship between two drivers who, in recent years, have often been portrayed as symbols of different generations. Beyond the on-track rivalry, there is a deep respect for what Lewis Hamilton has represented, and continues to represent, for Formula 1.
Looking ahead, 2026 will be a key year in determining whether Lewis Hamilton can rediscover competitiveness with Ferrari or whether rumours of a possible farewell will become something more concrete. For now, even his most recent great rival does not hide how difficult it is to watch him go through such a challenging moment.
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