Hamilton to Step Away Completely After Challenging Season with Ferrari

Post by : Mara Rahim

Lewis Hamilton has announced his intention to completely step away from everything during Formula 1’s winter break following a challenging first season with Ferrari. The seven-time champion joined the renowned team this year after his departure from Mercedes, generating considerable excitement among fans and pundits. Expectations were high for the collaboration, especially after Ferrari's strong finish in the constructors’ standings last season. Hopes were that Hamilton could contend for an eighth title, yet the year unfolded in an unexpectedly difficult manner.

This season marked one of the toughest chapters in Hamilton's career, as he notably missed the podium in every Grand Prix for the first time. His difficulties compounded towards the end of the season, with three consecutive early qualifying exits that added to his growing frustration. Prior to the final race in Abu Dhabi, he voiced feeling an “unbearable amount of anger” after qualifying in 16th place. Though he managed to secure eighth place on race day, he expressed the need for a complete mental hiatus.

Hamilton shared his plans to avoid all communication this winter, stating he won’t even carry his phone. He aims to “unplug from the matrix,” emphasizing the goal of detaching from all interactions. Traditionally, he keeps his phone close, but this time he mentioned he would “throw it in the bin” to ensure he can fully recharge after a mentally draining season.

His teammate Charles Leclerc, who attained seven podiums and finished fifth overall, also expressed dissatisfaction. Ferrari didn’t secure any race wins this year, and Leclerc noted that the upcoming season, with new Formula 1 regulations, presents a “now or never” opportunity for the team. With no Drivers’ Championship win since 2007—when Kimi Raikkonen clinched the title—the team ended the season in fourth, disappointing expectations.

Team principal Fred Vasseur responded thoughtfully to the drivers’ grievances, stating that challenges are part of every team’s journey. He emphasized that learning and improvement remain the fundamental goals, regardless of whether a team ranks first or tenth. Ferrari now shifts focus to the next season, eager to regain competitive form, prioritizing driver performance, team spirit, strategies, and overall results in F1.