Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton has been dealt a stark ultimatum: walk away from Formula 1 and collect the remainder of his colossal $AUD370 million Ferrari contract. The 40-year-old Briton endured another dismal weekend at the Hungarian Grand Prix, where he labeled himself “absolutely useless” following a P12 finish in both qualifying and the race. Hamilton’s struggles have prompted former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone to declare that it is time for him to step aside permanently.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Ecclestone asserted that Hamilton’s storied career has reached an inevitable decline, remarking, “Lewis is very talented, was and probably still is. But like many great athletes, once you hit the peak, the trajectory is only downward.” He emphasized that fatigue has crept in after years of relentless competition, suggesting that Hamilton should embrace retirement to avoid tarnishing his legacy. “He needs a complete reset and to explore life beyond racing,” Ecclestone added.
Hamilton’s Ferrari chapter has been underwhelming so far, with zero podiums in 14 races and only a sprint race win in China as a modest highlight. Meanwhile, teammate Charles Leclerc has outqualified him in 10 of 12 sessions and secured pole in Hungary, further underscoring Hamilton’s slump. Ecclestone warned that persisting under these conditions would be “cheating himself” and could even jeopardize his safety, adding, “He’s no longer in championship contention—why risk ending up bedridden with a broken back?”
The former F1 boss urged Ferrari to prepare for a succession plan, naming Racing Bulls rookie Isack Hadjar and Kick Sauber prospect Gabriel Bortoleto as potential candidates to partner Leclerc. With major regulation changes on the horizon and Ferrari focused on building for the future, Hamilton’s next move looms as a pivotal decision. For a driver with seven world titles and an indelible legacy, Ecclestone’s message is unequivocal: quit now, while the glory still outweighs the struggle.
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