Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, is navigating a tough 2025 debut season with Ferrari, scoring no wins or podiums in 14 races, with 109 points and a sixth-place standing in the drivers’ championship. His move to the Italian team, announced in February 2024, was a bold career shift, but adapting to the SF-25 car and tensions with teammate Charles Leclerc have posed challenges. In Maranello, Ferrari is focusing on technical and strategic upgrades for 2026, when new F1 regulations could redefine Hamilton’s path to an eighth title. After finishing 2024 just 14 points behind McLaren in the constructors’ championship, Ferrari sees Hamilton’s expertise as key to reclaiming dominance. What’s driving his struggles, and how is the team planning to turn things around?
The 2025 season has tested Hamilton’s resilience. After 12 years with Mercedes, where he clinched six of his seven titles, he expected a strong start with Ferrari. Instead, results like four fourth-place finishes (Emilia-Romagna, Austria, Great Britain, and Monaco) reflect underperformance, especially compared to Leclerc’s five podiums. Hamilton’s only win came in the China Sprint race, but inconsistent results led to a rare outburst, with the driver calling himself “useless” after a 12th-place finish in Hungary.
- Key challenges for Hamilton in 2025:
- Struggling to adapt to the SF-25’s rear instability and braking issues.
- Clashing driving styles with Leclerc, limiting data sharing.
- No race wins or podiums, with just 109 points after 14 races.
New regulations as a game-changer
Ferrari views the 2026 regulations, introducing aerodynamic changes and new power units, as a golden opportunity for Hamilton. Team principal Frédéric Vasseur admitted the team underestimated the challenge of transitioning Hamilton from Mercedes’ engines after nearly two decades. Working with ex-Mercedes engineer Loïc Serra, Ferrari is tweaking the car to suit Hamilton’s preference for front-axle weight. Meanwhile, Leclerc thrives with a setup favoring oversteer, creating internal friction. The team believes 2026’s changes could bridge these gaps and position Hamilton for his eighth title.
Vasseur, who has known Hamilton since his junior racing days, trusts the driver’s grit. He described Hamilton’s arrival as part of a “championship package,” with ongoing improvements in focus. Tests with new brake pads in Belgium showed promise, making Hamilton more comfortable, though still far from peak performance.
Hamilton’s contract power
A critical element of Hamilton’s Ferrari deal is a clause giving him control over staying until 2027. Italian media report that Hamilton can unilaterally extend his contract for a third year, regardless of results. Backed by Ferrari president John Elkann, this flexibility lets Hamilton shape his future with the team.
- Benefits of Hamilton’s contract:
- Option to extend until 2027, decided solely by him.
- Full support from Elkann, with a clear car development plan.
- Focus on the eighth title, with tailored technical upgrades.
- Freedom to propose changes to team structure.
However, 2025’s lack of results raises questions about extending the partnership. If the 2026 car falls short, Hamilton could choose to walk away, avoiding prolonged frustration.
Tensions with Leclerc and technical tweaks
Differences between Hamilton and Leclerc extend beyond driving styles. Hamilton has criticized the SF-25’s brakes, hydraulic steering, and rear-end behavior, especially during braking. Ferrari found that the car’s setup favors Leclerc, who handles oversteer better, while Hamilton struggles with instability. This has hindered data sharing, slowing development.
In Hungary, Hamilton’s frustration peaked, suggesting Ferrari “swap drivers.” The comment drew criticism from former Ferrari driver Jean Alesi, who called it demoralizing. Vasseur defended Hamilton, acknowledging the team’s missteps in his integration. Upgrades like a new rear suspension and brake adjustments, tested at Spa-Francorchamps, signal efforts to address these issues.
Strategies for 2026
Ferrari is doubling down on its 2026 car, led by Serra and deputy director Jérôme D’Ambrosio, another ex-Mercedes figure. The team denies designing the car solely for Hamilton but admits his rapport with Serra aids communication. Regular meetings with both drivers aim to align their needs, targeting more downforce and stability.
- Ferrari’s 2026 priorities:
- Aerodynamic tweaks for the new regulations.
- Developing a more efficient power unit.
- Balancing Hamilton and Leclerc’s driving styles.
- Incorporating driver feedback for better competitiveness.
Ferrari is also keeping an eye on young talents like Oliver Bearman as future options, but the immediate focus is leveraging Hamilton’s experience, especially with 2026’s regulatory shake-up.
Hamilton’s off-track influence
Beyond racing, Hamilton continues to shape Formula 1’s landscape. His Mission 44 foundation promotes diversity in motorsport, while partnerships with Tommy Hilfiger and Dior cement his global icon status. His vegan lifestyle and sustainability advocacy resonate with fans, amplifying his reach.
Hamilton’s estimated $285 million fortune in 2025, fueled by a $97 million annual Ferrari deal and investments in startups and real estate, underscores his financial clout. His philanthropy through Mission 44 and involvement in a Brad Pitt-led F1 film highlight his versatility.
- Hamilton’s off-track impact:
- Mission 44 drives diversity and inclusion in motorsport.
- Partnerships with fashion and non-alcoholic beverage brands like Almave.
- Investments in tech and global philanthropy efforts.
Looking ahead
The 2025 season has exposed the complexities of integrating a driver of Hamilton’s caliber into Ferrari’s dynamic. The team, which hasn’t won a drivers’ title since 2007, sees Hamilton as key to ending the drought. The next 18 months, with 2026’s regulations as a turning point, will be pivotal. At 40, Hamilton remains driven by his love for racing and the pursuit of an eighth title, but his future hinges on results.
Ferrari faces intense pressure to balance the demands of two elite drivers while executing major technical changes. Elkann’s support and Serra’s expertise are assets, but harmony between Hamilton and Leclerc will be critical.
Gearing up for 2026
As 2026 pre-season testing nears in Bahrain, set for February, Hamilton is already involved in development. He’s praised Ferrari’s openness to his input, a contrast to his final Mercedes years. His long-standing bond with Vasseur, dating back to 2004, is a strength, but technical execution will decide success.
With McLaren, Red Bull, and Mercedes also preparing for 2026, competition will be fierce. Hamilton’s experience with past rule changes, like 2014’s hybrid era with Mercedes, could give Ferrari an edge.