Ralf Schumacher claims Ferrari made a controversial Lewis Hamilton decision behind the scenes. Lewis Hamilton struggles with Ferrari’s SF25 as Charles Leclerc dominates.

Lewis Hamilton has been involved in too many public controversies at Ferrari during the 2025 season, according to Ralf Schumacher. The seven-time Formula 1 World Champion entered the summer break at one of the lowest points of his career, struggling to find consistency with the SF25.

At the Hungarian Grand Prix, a race where Hamilton started and finished in a disappointing P12, he described himself as “useless” and even suggested that Ferrari might need to consider a driver change. These comments fueled speculation about a potential early retirement, though Schumacher stressed that Ferrari are not ignoring Hamilton’s remarks, even if they are concerning. At present, there appears to be little realistic prospect of the 40-year-old leaving the team before his contract ends in 2026.

Speaking to Bild, Schumacher suggested that Hamilton may be struggling to adapt to the SF25, a car that appears better suited to his long-serving Ferrari teammate, Charles Leclerc. From the season opener in Australia through to Hungary, Hamilton has found it difficult to demonstrate clear progress or consistency.

Ralf Schumacher also expressed the view that Ferrari may have already made Charles Leclerc their number one driver. Schumacher, who was sceptical about Hamilton’s move to Ferrari before the season began while others were enthusiastic, believes his doubts have been justified.

Despite his challenging season, Hamilton has tried to exert considerable influence within the team. He has submitted detailed feedback documents proposing both mechanical changes to the car and structural adjustments to team operations. However, Ralf Schumacher theorizes that Ferrari’s focus has already shifted to the Monegasque driver, who has claimed all five of the team’s podium finishes so far in 2025.

Looking at competitive sessions where both drivers were classified, Leclerc holds a decisive advantage, leading Hamilton 24-8 in head-to-head comparisons. Schumacher noted that Hamilton’s recent struggles, combined with his public criticism of the team and the car, have not helped either himself or Ferrari. He suggested that the SF25’s characteristics suit Leclerc better, and speculated that Lewis Hamilton might be “too old to adapt” to the current machinery or is simply unable to cope with its handling. Schumacher concluded that Ferrari’s decision to prioritize Leclerc appears to have been made a long time ago, though he does not expect Lewis Hamilton to give up mid-season.

While Leclerc has clearly been the stronger performer, Hamilton remains the most decorated driver on the grid and retains the potential to rediscover his form, particularly in 2026 when new regulations come into play. Some within Ferrari, however, are reportedly losing confidence in their superstar signing, especially given his tendency to publicly critique his own performances.

The Briton has attempted to take on a “shadow team principal” role at Ferrari, aiming to guide the team’s development and strategy. If Schumacher’s analysis is accurate, the team is likely to place greater emphasis on Charles Leclerc’s feedback and direction, effectively limiting Hamilton’s influence despite his experience and credentials. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Lewis Hamilton can adapt to the SF25 and reassert himself within the team, or if Ferrari will continue to center their strategy around Leclerc as their undisputed lead driver.