Lewis Hamilton experienced a difficult weekend at the 2025 Brazilian Grand Prix, with two separate incidents that left his Ferrari’s floor damaged and ruined any chance of a recovery. Following the race, former Ferrari engineer Luigi Mazzola sounded the alarm about the world champion’s current form and what it could mean heading into 2026.
Once again, Lewis Hamilton left the circuit frustrated after a weekend that began with promise but ended in disappointment. His elimination in Q2 compromised the entire race, and two collisions further worsened his situation. For Luigi Mazzola, the issue is deeper than a single race — it reflects a troubling pattern in the seven-time world champion’s adaptation to the SF-25.
Speaking to the media, Hamilton admitted his frustration with the result. This season, he expected far more from himself and from Ferrari. However, the challenge of adapting to a car that still lacks overall performance has been greater than anticipated. The most concerning fact is that after more than twenty races, Lewis Hamilton has yet to stand on the podium. In contrast, his teammate Charles Leclerc has achieved seven podium finishes and holds a 64-point advantage over him in the standings.
Hamilton has repeatedly stated that he had little influence on the development of the SF-25, but that things will change in 2026, when Ferrari’s new car will bear his technical input. Still, Luigi Mazzola — who worked in Maranello during Ferrari’s golden years — issued a stark warning after analyzing the situation following the Brazilian GP.
Luigi Mazzola: “He’s at the peak of misfortune and depression”
“He started the season with great motivation and strong intentions,” explained Luigi Mazzola during the latest episode of Race Anatomy. “He was convinced he could arrive and fight for a great championship. But he found himself with a car that nobody has yet understood how to set up properly. It just isn’t there. And he’s facing a teammate who is stronger than him. So right now, he’s at the peak of misfortune and depression. It can’t get worse than this. If next year he finds a car capable of winning, he might be able to recover. Otherwise, he’s lost.”
The former Ferrari engineer’s words highlight a critical moment in Lewis Hamilton’s first season with the Scuderia. Unless a miracle happens, it seems unlikely that Ferrari will secure a win before the end of the year — and perhaps just as unlikely that the Briton will reach the podium. Despite some progress in closing the gap to Charles Leclerc, the performance difference remains significant.
For the seven-time world champion from Stevenage, 2026 could represent the final opportunity to prove that he still belongs among Formula 1’s elite. Much will depend on Ferrari’s ability to deliver a competitive and well-balanced car that suits his driving style.
Meanwhile, young British talent Oliver Bearman continues to impress. Once again, the Ferrari junior driver scored points, finishing in sixth place in Brazil. His consistency and composure are earning him increasing recognition within the team. If Hamilton fails to regain his competitive edge, Ollie Bearman could be the one to step up as Ferrari’s next full-time driver alongside Charles Leclerc.
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