Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton risks ending his stint with Ferrari when his contract naturally expires, with Oliver Bearman poised to take over.
Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari: a partnership born from ambition and championship dreams, but one that might end before truly reaching its potential—at least for now.
According to rumors circulating in the international paddock and reported by ESPN, Maranello has already drawn the line: there will be no contract extension for the British driver beyond 2026.
Hamilton-Ferrari: a relationship yet to fully blossom
Arriving in red with the aura of an all-time great and the clear goal of bringing the title back to Maranello, Hamilton has faced far more difficulties than expected. After 20 races, the balance sheet is heavy: no podiums, a significant gap of 64 points behind Charles Leclerc in the standings, and overall performance well below the expectations set when he signed.
The Shanghai Sprint offered a glimmer of hope, but the following day’s disqualification for excessive skid block wear brought everyone back to reality, highlighting the structural limits of the SF-25, which has since been forced into conservative setup choices.
Hamilton’s “multi-year” contract, reportedly worth astronomical sums, will not be terminated early; it runs through the end of 2026. Beyond that, however, the focus is already shifting toward the next generation.
In pole position to take the baton is Oliver Bearman, who has impressed with a solid Formula 1 debut, capped by a sensational P4 in Mexico that thrilled the fans.
A clear signal: Ferrari is looking ahead. The Hamilton era in red—born as a revolution—risks remaining an unfinished project.