Lewis Hamilton, now 40, has faced a challenging debut season with Ferrari, a stark contrast to his dominance with Mercedes. At the Hungarian Grand Prix, a circuit where Hamilton holds multiple records, the seven-time world champion qualified and finished a disappointing 12th.

Hamilton’s frustration boiled over in an interview where he described himself as “useless,” even suggesting Ferrari should consider changing drivers.

The season so far has been littered with setbacks for Hamilton, who trails teammate Charles Leclerc significantly in both qualifying and race results. While Leclerc boasts five podium finishes, Hamilton has yet to reach the top three this year.

The question now looms: Could these struggles precipitate an unexpectedly early end to Hamilton’s illustrious career? 

Contemplating the Future: Retirement or Revival?

Despite the negative moments, Hamilton assured fans he intends to return after the summer break, signaling no immediate retirement plans. However, his candidness has sowed doubt about whether he will continue beyond the current 2025 campaign.

After experiencing the pinnacle of success with 105 race wins and seven world titles, fighting midfield battles is hardly the stage expected for the sport’s legend.

Former F1 driver and pundit Ralf Schumacher echoed concerns that Hamilton’s difficulties could lead to early retirement should performances not improve. Schumacher highlighted Hamilton’s struggle to adapt to Ferrari’s car – a stark shift from the Mercedes machines he mastered for over a decade.

With ground-effect cars dominating since 2022, Hamilton has only managed two wins, demonstrating how this style doesn’t ideally suit his driving. 

Reasons for Optimism and What Lies Ahead

Toto Wolff, Hamilton’s former Mercedes team boss and close confidant, remains hopeful that Hamilton will stay on for at least another full season. Wolff points to significant regulation changes slated for 2026, including revised car designs and power units, which could play to Hamilton’s strengths and allow him a fresh start.

He believes Hamilton has “unfinished business” in his quest for an eighth World Championship, a milestone that would surpass Michael Schumacher’s record.

Hamilton has also been adjusting to a Ferrari car that has faced its own challenges this season, including technical issues impacting Leclerc’s race pace. Such factors temper expectations for the current season but hint at potential improvements in the near future.

While the current struggles are real, the prospect of rejuvenation with next year’s regulation reset provides a glimmer of hope for both Hamilton and Ferrari fans.

Hamilton’s career remains one of the most remarkable in F1 history. Whether his recent self-critical remarks signal a fleeting low point or the beginning of an exit decision, the sport and its fans will closely watch his next moves as he attempts to turn around a difficult season with the Prancing Horse.