Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton is facing growing speculation about his future in the sport following another disappointing performance by Ferrari at the Hungarian Grand Prix.
The British racing icon, who joined Ferrari at the start of the 2025 season, has struggled to replicate his Mercedes success with the Italian team. Persistent technical issues and strategic missteps have left Hamilton languishing in the midfield, raising questions about whether the 40-year-old will continue in F1 beyond this season.
Ferrari's Hungarian GP Woes
At Sunday's race in Budapest, Hamilton could only manage a seventh-place finish despite showing promising pace in qualifying. The result marks Ferrari's fifth consecutive race without a podium, with teammate Charles Leclerc retiring early due to engine failure.
"We're clearly not where we want to be," Hamilton admitted after the race. "The car has potential, but we're missing something fundamental. The team is working incredibly hard, but the progress isn't coming quickly enough."
Contract Uncertainty Looms
With Hamilton's current two-year deal expiring at the end of 2026, insiders suggest the champion may reconsider his commitment if Ferrari's form doesn't improve dramatically. Team principal Frédéric Vasseur remains publicly supportive, but pressure is mounting for results.
Analysts point to several factors complicating Hamilton's situation:
- Ferrari's ongoing struggles with tyre degradation
- Questionable race strategy decisions
- Emerging young talent like Oliver Bearman waiting in the wings
- Hamilton's advancing age and physical demands of modern F1
What Next for the British Legend?
While retirement rumours persist, some paddock observers believe Hamilton might seek a shock return to Mercedes, where he won six of his seven titles. The Brackley-based team has shown improved form this season with their new W16 challenger.
Sky Sports F1 commentator Martin Brundle noted: "Lewis isn't the type to walk away from a challenge, but he's also fiercely competitive. If he can't see a path back to winning ways, he might make some tough decisions."
The F1 circus now moves to Spa-Francorchamps for the Belgian Grand Prix, where Hamilton will be desperate to show he and Ferrari can still compete at the sharp end of the grid.
