Martin Brundle, a respected Formula 1 commentator, has issued a stark warning about Lewis Hamilton’s future with Ferrari if the driver does not improve his performance following the summer break. The 2025 season has seen Hamilton struggle significantly, contrasting sharply with the high expectations that greeted his move to Ferrari.
After a disappointing exit in Q2 at the Hungarian Grand Prix, Hamilton candidly questioned his own place within the team, describing himself as “useless.” Brundle, reflecting on these developments in his Sky Sports column, emphasized the importance of this break for Hamilton to reset and regain his form, suggesting the possibility of Hamilton’s departure from the sport if results do not improve.
The summer break couldn’t be more timely for Lewis to have a reset,
Brundle wrote.
It’s painful to observe this great champion in so much strife, and we have to expect that he can weather the storm and return to form given his talent and experience, but otherwise I simply can’t see him enduring two more seasons at Ferrari, or anywhere else, like this.
—Martin Brundle, F1 Commentator
Challenges Facing Hamilton Compared to Teammate Charles Leclerc
While Lewis Hamilton has struggled to make an impact, his Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc—although also challenged by the SF-25’s issues—has had moments of promise. Leclerc’s five podium finishes this season, including a pole position at the Hungarian Grand Prix, have only highlighted the contrast in their performances.
Hamilton’s difficulties were underscored by a 12th-place finish at the Hungaroring, a result that left him without points and deepening his frustration within the team.
Leclerc in the other Ferrari was also unhappy but for very different reasons,
Brundle explained.
He led superbly from pole position and had great pace in the opening stint, even pulling away from Piastri. However, his pace increasingly dropped off as the race progressed, and his angsty radio calls were all about him wanting to have handled expected car issues differently.
—Martin Brundle, F1 Commentator
What Lies Ahead for Hamilton and Ferrari
The juxtaposition of Hamilton’s continuing struggles and Leclerc’s flashes of competitiveness underscores a worrying situation for the seven-time world champion. Brundle’s comments highlight that unless Hamilton can reverse his current downward trend, his future at Ferrari—and possibly in Formula 1—looks uncertain.
The summer break represents a critical window for Hamilton to regain confidence and results; failure to do so could lead to a major shift in his career trajectory. As the 2025 season progresses post-break, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see whether Hamilton can overcome these challenges or if his tenure at Ferrari will reach an untimely end.