Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari future has become a major topic of debate in Formula 1, especially as his recent performances have sparked concern among fans and experts alike. As the 2024 season reaches its break, questions grow over whether Hamilton will continue racing or choose early retirement amid ongoing challenges with his Ferrari car.
Mounting difficulties cloud Hamilton’s hopes at Ferrari
When Hamilton joined Ferrari, expectations soared that the seven-time world champion would restore the team’s dominance and pursue an unprecedented eighth championship. However, his best finish so far this season is fourth place, coupled with numerous candid interviews expressing his frustration. Statements like “I am useless” and calls for Ferrari to replace their driver have fueled speculation about his future behind the wheel.
Juan Pablo Montoya, a former Formula 1 driver, shared his perspective on Hamilton’s potential plans.
“I think he’ll wait next year for sure to see where they are. And if they struggle next year and he’s not competitive, I think he might just go, ‘You know what? That’s it. I’ve got other things in my life’,”
Montoya commented to CoinPoker. He also noted,
“At the end of the day, he’s got a long contract with them to be an ambassador whether he drives a car or not. But you don’t want to see Lewis leave on a low.”
Challenges with performance and team dynamics
Recent seasons have not been kind to Hamilton, who has only secured two race wins in the last four years. Meanwhile, younger teammates George Russell at Mercedes and Charles Leclerc at Ferrari have often outpaced him. This contrast has intensified discussions around Hamilton’s competitiveness and future role in the sport.
Montoya elaborated on Hamilton’s struggles:
“It’s a wakeup call. In the last couple of years when the Mercedes stopped being really good, I think he backed off in qualifying because there was no need. And I think to get it back is really difficult.”
He highlighted how Hamilton’s driving style clashes with Ferrari’s current car setup, saying,
“Look at an onboard of Lewis in qualifying. That car does not suit him at all. You look at Charles, and Charles looks like Max, looks like Lando. He is precise. And Lewis is fighting with the car. He doesn’t trust the car. He’s trying, but it is just the way the car is set up for him does not match his driving style.”
The future of Hamilton in F1 remains uncertain
With growing doubts about his form and the car’s compatibility, Hamilton’s long-term prospects with Ferrari remain unclear. The 40-year-old driver faces not only intense pressure to perform but also the personal consideration of life beyond racing. As Montoya suggested, Hamilton could choose to step away if competitiveness doesn’t improve next season.
Hamilton’s decision will significantly influence Ferrari’s ambitions and the broader dynamics of Formula 1, especially as the sport evolves with new drivers and technologies. Fans and pundits await to see whether Hamilton can reclaim his status or if the 2025 season will bring an end to one of racing’s most remarkable careers.