Ferrari Facing Huge Decision as Hamilton’s Struggles Intensify and Two Replacements Are Linked
Ferrari’s highly anticipated partnership with Lewis Hamilton has entered crisis territory, and according to growing paddock whispers, the team already has two potential replacements ready if they decide to part ways with the seven-time world champion as early as next month. What once looked like a dream signing has instead turned into one of the most disappointing seasons of Hamilton’s career — and possibly one of the biggest miscalculations in Ferrari history.
When Hamilton confirmed he would leave Mercedes to join the Scuderia, it sent shockwaves through Formula 1. Fans pictured red overalls, iconic Ferrari victories, and his long-awaited eighth world title. Instead, Hamilton has endured a nightmare run of form, going 21 races without a single podium, making this the longest win and podium drought of his career.
The frustration has been visible. Hamilton has publicly criticized himself and the team, including the now-famous moment when he told reporters: “I’m absolutely useless. Ferrari should probably replace me.” Those words, though emotional, have now echoed throughout the paddock — and suddenly the idea of a Ferrari without Hamilton no longer sounds unthinkable.
Pressure Growing From Inside and Outside Ferrari
Sources within Maranello suggest that the team is split. Some still believe Hamilton’s experience is invaluable as the team prepares for the new era of regulations in 2026. Others think the partnership is not working, culturally or competitively, and that Ferrari cannot afford to spend more seasons in limbo.
Team principal Frédéric Vasseur has admitted that Ferrari underestimated the cultural and operational differences Hamilton would be adjusting to. The transition from Mercedes — a team built around Hamilton — to Ferrari, a team structured differently and driven by heritage and internal politics, has reportedly been more difficult than expected.
Hamilton, who turns 41 next season, has complained about setup limitations, lack of grip, and car balance issues. There have even been internal disagreements about development direction, and some commentators believe Hamilton’s driving style simply does not pair well with Ferrari’s current car philosophy.
Ecclestone Suggests Two Successors
Former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone has been one of the loudest voices urging Ferrari to move on. He has publicly declared that Hamilton looks “tired” and should retire instead of prolonging a miserable chapter. More notably, he claims he already knows two drivers Ferrari could sign immediately if they choose to end Hamilton’s contract early.
The first is Isack Hadjar, a Red Bull–backed rookie currently racing for Racing Bulls. The French driver has impressed this season and is seen as one of the grid’s most promising newcomers. Ecclestone says Hadjar has the “aggression and confidence Ferrari is lacking.”
The second is Gabriel Bortoleto, the young Brazilian racing for Sauber. Calm, consistent, and highly rated by Ferrari insiders, Bortoleto has been described as a “future leader” — someone Ferrari could build around long-term if they are willing to reset now.
Both names carry risk, but they also represent youth, future promise, and lower expectations than the Hamilton project, which currently feels like a weight pressing down on the entire team.
What Hamilton Says Now
Despite the criticism, Hamilton insists he is not done. He has repeatedly rejected suggestions that he will walk away and insists his focus remains on helping Ferrari evolve, even if results are not coming yet.
He claims the team is “going through a necessary rebuilding phase” and has stated that improvements are coming — both in upgrades and internal alignment. Hamilton has even said the adversity is “making the team stronger.” However, while those words show commitment, they have done little to silence doubt.
His raw emotional comments and body language this season tell a different story — one of frustration, uncertainty, and possibly regret.
Ferrari’s Risk and Reality
If Ferrari keeps Hamilton, they are betting on experience, brand power, and the chance that he eventually adapts to the car. If they replace him now, they risk losing one of the biggest names in the sport — but could also accelerate a generational reset by putting a young driver like Hadjar or Bortoleto alongside Charles Leclerc.
The team has been searching for stability for years. They have changed drivers, bosses, and engineers, and still the results are inconsistent. Hamilton was meant to be the missing piece — the man who would bring leadership, data, and championship mentality. Instead, Ferrari now finds itself contemplating whether to end the partnership before it becomes irreversibly damaging.
A Defining Moment
Whether Ferrari acts now or trusts Hamilton to recover, one thing is clear — this situation is reaching a breaking point. Hamilton’s pride, Ferrari’s reputation, and the expectations of millions of fans are all on the line.
The next few races could determine whether Hamilton’s Ferrari chapter becomes one of the sport’s greatest comeback stories — or one of its most painful what-ifs.
