Is Lewis Hamilton already preparing his exit from Ferrari? Johnny Herbert drops the bomb

The Lewis Hamilton–Ferrari story was supposed to be epic. A seven-time world champion arriving in Maranello to close out his career in style. But halfway through the 2025 season, that narrative feels more like a drama than a celebration. No podiums, no competitive pace, and a string of statements that have triggered alarm bells. Hamilton is showing signs of frustration that could mark the beginning of the end of his time with Ferrari.

To spice things up, a report from the motorsport outlet Firstsportz revealed a bold theory from former F1 driver and FIA steward Johnny Herbert. According to Herbert, Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari might already be discussing an early exit. He claims Hamilton suggested the team should have a second driver ready for 2026—hinting that internal talks may already be laying the groundwork for a potential split if results don’t improve.

“Absolutely useless”

Lewis Hamilton, who joined Ferrari by replacing Carlos Sainz, hasn’t found his groove with the car or the technical setup led by Fred Vasseur. In his own words, he feels “absolutely useless” to the team. Coming from one of the most decorated drivers in F1 history, that statement hits hard. The lack of progress with the car and mounting media pressure have turned his debut season into an uphill battle.

Potential Lewis Hamilton replacement named as pundit teases mutual separation:

— Johnny Herbert, former Sky F1 pundit and FIA steward, speculated that Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari might agree to part ways at the end of the F1 2025 season if their struggles continue. Speaking to… pic.twitter.com/8xM9zvnFAX

— This is Formula 1 (@ThisIsFormu1a1) August 19, 2025

Meanwhile, Carlos Sainz—now racing for Williams—has left the door open for a return to Maranello. His current performance may not be stellar, but his previous stint with Ferrari and solid rapport with Charles Leclerc make him a viable option. Herbert even floated Sainz’s name as a potential replacement, while ruling out Max Verstappen, whose bond with Red Bull remains rock-solid.

A complex backdrop

Lewis Hamilton’s struggles are compounded by Ferrari’s broader issues. The team is losing ground to Red Bull and McLaren. While Charles Leclerc has shown flashes of brilliance, the overall performance falls short of expectations. The pressure from tifosi, Italian media, and sponsors is starting to take its toll.

In this climate, the upcoming Grands Prix will be critical. If Lewis Hamilton can’t turn things around, his chapter with Ferrari might end up as a footnote in an otherwise legendary career. And if the Scuderia decides to make a move, bringing back Sainz or betting on a rising star could signal the start of a new era. For now, Hamilton’s red dream is hanging by a thread.

 

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Una publicación compartida de Lewis Hamilton (@lewishamilton)