P1racenews AI automatic summary:
With Lewis Hamilton enduring a torrid debut campaign with Ferrari and entering the summer break dejected, could he retire from F1?
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton’s disappointing start at Ferrari hit a new low in Hungary, as he finished 12th in qualifying and the race at a circuit where he usually excels. Outclassed by teammate Charles Leclerc in the first 14 races without a podium, Hamilton criticized himself as “useless” and hinted at a possible driver change in the team.
Concerns over Hamilton’s future in F1 have arisen following his cryptic remarks, leaving doubts about his return after the summer break or for the remainder of the 2025 season. Hamilton’s emotional outbursts often reflect his results, as seen in his determined refusal to fail with Ferrari just days before his Hungarian struggles.
As speculation looms about Hamilton’s potential exit, a hypothetical replacement like Ferrari junior program driver Oliver Bearman emerges. With an impressive F1 debut standing in for Sainz and subsequent progress at Haas, Bearman is seen as a future star for Ferrari, possibly ready for a sudden promotion if needed.
If Ferrari needed a temporary solution, experienced drivers like Valtteri Bottas or Sergio Perez could step in as steady hands to support the team and their F1 title ambitions. Despite being short-term options, both drivers could fill the void left by Hamilton effectively until a long-term replacement is found. Carlos Sainz remains an integral part of Ferrari’s setup, with his success at the team potentially being underscored by Hamilton’s departure.
