SAO PAULO: Lewis Hamilton has dismissed speculation that he might not continue with Ferrari beyond next year, following a disappointing 2025 season. The seven-time Formula 1 champion endured a record 20-race streak without a podium, the longest in Ferrari’s history, leaving him sixth in the drivers’ championship with 146 points, 64 behind teammate Charles Leclerc.
Rumours intensified after the Mexico City Grand Prix, where Hamilton received a 10-second penalty during the race, leading to speculation that 20-year-old Briton Oliver Bearman, a Ferrari protege at Haas, could replace him. Bearman, who finished fourth in Mexico and has had a strong rookie season, also dismissed talk of succeeding Hamilton as unrealistic.
Read More: Hamilton’s Ferrari Debut: A new era begins at Australian GP
Hamilton, 40, emphasized the security of his contract, stating, “Normally, when you do a contract, it’s usually the year before you start to talk about it. And I’m a little bit far from that right now.” He acknowledged the difficulties of his first season with Ferrari, including calls for changes to the team’s working practices.
The F1 star also addressed his criticism of the International Motoring Federation (FIA) following several controversial incidents in Mexico. Hamilton was the only driver penalized after cutting across the grass and rejoining the track, highlighting a lack of clarity and transparency in penalty procedures.
Read More: Ferrari 296 GTB launched at Rs 5.40 crore
“I think that’s probably part of the big issue of transparency and accountability… Some work needs to be done,” Hamilton said. His remarks underline ongoing concerns about fairness and consistency in race officiating, which he believes can impact careers and championship outcomes.