‘Disappear’: Lewis Hamilton Told to Leave F1 If One Thing Happens in First Ferrari Season
Formula 1 icon Lewis Hamilton is gearing up for a seismic shift in his career, leaving Mercedes after over a decade to join Ferrari in 2025. The seven-time world champion’s move has sent shockwaves through the sport, with fans and pundits alike speculating on what the future holds for him at the Scuderia. However, a bold warning has emerged from some critics—if one particular scenario unfolds, Hamilton should consider walking away from F1 entirely.
A Legendary Career on the Line
Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari marks one of the most significant moves in F1 history. After dominating the sport with Mercedes, he is now taking on a new challenge, hoping to bring Ferrari its first drivers’ championship since Kimi Räikkönen in 2007. However, many believe that if Hamilton struggles to outperform his new teammate, Charles Leclerc, his reputation could take a hit.
Some former drivers and pundits have suggested that if Leclerc decisively beats Hamilton in 2025, the British driver should consider retiring rather than risk tarnishing his legacy. Criticism has particularly come from former F1 drivers who believe Hamilton’s dominance was largely due to Mercedes’ superior car rather than just his driving ability.
The Leclerc Challenge
Leclerc, Ferrari’s golden boy, has been with the team since 2019 and is widely regarded as one of the most talented drivers on the grid. The Monegasque has repeatedly proven his raw speed in qualifying and his ability to fight at the front, despite Ferrari’s inconsistent performance. Many believe he will be eager to assert himself as Ferrari’s number-one driver, making life difficult for Hamilton.
Should Leclerc comprehensively outpace Hamilton—especially in qualifying and race pace—the questions about Hamilton’s ability outside the Mercedes ecosystem will only grow louder. Critics argue that if Hamilton cannot match or beat Leclerc, it may be better for him to bow out of F1 rather than endure a decline similar to other legendary drivers who overstayed their primes.
‘Disappear’ from F1?
One of the loudest voices raising concerns about Hamilton’s move is former F1 driver and commentator Jacques Villeneuve. The 1997 world champion has been known for his blunt takes on the sport, and he recently suggested that if Hamilton gets “destroyed” by Leclerc, he should consider walking away from F1 immediately.
“If Lewis gets beaten convincingly by Charles in his first Ferrari season, he will have no choice but to disappear,” Villeneuve reportedly said. “His entire legacy is built on winning, and if he suddenly looks like a number-two driver, that changes everything.”
Villeneuve’s comments echo similar sentiments expressed when Michael Schumacher returned to F1 with Mercedes in 2010. The seven-time champion struggled against younger competition and was regularly outperformed by teammate Nico Rosberg, leading to an unceremonious retirement in 2012.
Hamilton’s Response
Hamilton has always thrived on
