Challenging performance and internal pressure: Hamilton has endured a “disappointing” and “nightmare” first season with Ferrari, failing to secure a win or a podium finish in the first 20-21 races, which has led to widespread speculation about his future.
Contract uncertainty: Reports suggest that Ferrari are not planning to offer Hamilton a new contract extension beyond the end of his current deal in 2026, although some speculation mentions his existing contract may include an option to extend until the end of 2027.

Successor identified: Several prominent F1 figures, including former team principal Guenther Steiner and Sky Sports F1 reporter Ted Kravitz, have publicly tipped Ferrari junior Oliver Bearman to be Hamilton’s eventual and inevitable replacement, particularly if Hamilton’s form does not improve.
Management disagreement on criticism: Hamilton’s candid criticism of the team’s performance, including calling his season a “nightmare,” was met with a public retort from Ferrari chief John Elkann, who advised F1 drivers to “focus on driving and talk less.”
Team principal’s defence: Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur again disagreed with Hamilton’s downbeat personal assessment of the season after his 10th-place finish at the weekend, stating that the poor results are not solely due to “pure performance,” but rather the team’s struggle to have a “clean weekend” and issues with “track operations.”

Concerns over 2026 regulations: Hamilton worryingly said after the Las Vegas GP that he is “not looking forward” to next year and has expressed significant apprehension regarding the new technical regulations coming in 2026, predicting they will result in “slow” and “draggy” cars.
Hamilton’s intent to continue: Despite the difficulties, Hamilton has maintained that he has “no intention” of retiring and is still focused on delivering a world championship to Ferrari, noting that he still has a “pretty long contract.”