Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton may reassess their Ferrari future after early 2026 F1 races
Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton could be forced to evaluate their long-term future at Ferrari if the Maranello team fails to deliver a competitive car in the 2026 Formula 1 season. Following a frustrating 2025 campaign, the Scuderia has struggled to keep pace with rivals including McLaren, Mercedes, and Red Bull.
In 2025, Ferrari managed only five podium finishes, largely due to the challenging characteristics of the SF-25 and subsequent development and operational errors. Persistent ride height issues have plagued the car all season, prompting both Leclerc and Hamilton to request aerodynamic upgrades. However, these requests were reportedly sidelined as the team prioritized a new rear suspension system, which ultimately failed to yield performance gains.
As the prospect of a winless 2025 season looms, Ferrari is placing significant hope on the 2026 F1 regulations to help them climb back up the grid. Team principal Fred Vasseur is reportedly under pressure from both drivers and senior staff to deliver a car capable of challenging for victories and maintaining consistent competitiveness.
Driver frustration grows at Ferrari
Leclerc is increasingly frustrated as he enters his seventh season with Ferrari without a championship-contending car, while Hamilton has been submitting detailed private reports to the team outlining areas for improvement. Both drivers are believed to be closely monitoring Ferrari’s progress and assessing whether the team can deliver a competitive package in 2026.
Fate of Ferrari’s star pairing to be decided by Monaco GP 2026
Sources suggest that the future of Leclerc and Hamilton at Ferrari could be determined during the early stages of the 2026 season, potentially by the Monaco Grand Prix. While Hamilton’s contract expires at the end of 2026, Leclerc remains under contract until 2029. However, his management is reportedly exploring options with other top teams, including Mercedes, Red Bull, and Aston Martin, highlighting that Ferrari risks losing its star duo if next year’s car falls short.
Journalist Roberto Chinchero, writing for the Italian version of the Motorsport.com website, indicated that the first seven to eight races of the 2026 season will be critical. If Ferrari produces a car capable of keeping Leclerc and Hamilton in championship contention, the pairing is likely to continue into 2027. Conversely, if the SF-26 underperforms, various scenarios, including driver departures, could unfold.
Potential replacements if Ferrari loses Leclerc and Hamilton
Losing both Leclerc and Hamilton would represent a major setback for Ferrari. Leclerc is considered the team’s “golden talent,” having progressed through the Ferrari Driver Academy, while Hamilton, recently signed from Mercedes on a high-profile contract, brings vast experience and star power. Retaining this pairing remains a top priority, but a disappointing 2026 campaign could force Ferrari to explore the Formula 1 driver market for suitable replacements.
Hamilton is widely expected to consider retirement, although he has the option to extend his contract for 2027. Leclerc, on the other hand, may look to switch teams if Ferrari cannot provide a competitive car. Potential replacements being monitored by Ferrari include Oscar Piastri, who could swap places with Leclerc at McLaren, and rising talents such as Oliver Bearman, currently with Haas, and Gabriel Bortoleto, who impressed with Sauber during his rookie season. Despite these options, Ferrari’s priority will be to retain both Leclerc and Hamilton if possible.
Ultimately, the 2026 season will be a defining period for Ferrari, as the team seeks to deliver a championship-caliber car while securing the commitment of its two most valuable drivers. The early races, culminating in Monaco, are expected to provide the clearest indication of whether Ferrari can maintain its star driver lineup or face a significant reshuffle in the coming years.
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