Lewis Hamilton goes down flat, Ferrari fans quiver: open debate
Lewis Hamilton chooses the path of frankness at a time when the Ferrari environment is eager for redemption after a first part of the season without any particular highlights. The Briton arrives at the Montreal weekend with a message that leaves no room for interpretation: no surrender or doubts about the future, no intention to take a step back. His intention is clear, that of taking back the 2026 season and putting behind him a few too many results below expectations.
During the press conference presenting the Canadian GP, Hamilton wanted to emphasize the Cavallino’s progress, explaining that he expects a concrete improvement right away, while recognizing Mercedes as the reference team, admitting McLaren’s strength and expecting a rematch from Red Bull. “We have to focus on our work,” Hamilton said, “making the most of what we have: only the track can tell the truth about our state of form.”
Then the segment that shook up the debate, with Hamilton categorically denying any rumors of retirement: “There are a lot of people who fantasize about this hypothesis and would like to see me leave the scene,” he said, sketching a smile. “I have a clear contract, I am extremely motivated and I like being here. I honestly do not think about retiring, I still see myself in Formula 1 and the situation has not changed. Trying other races like Verstappen does? As an option it is fascinating, but there is nothing concrete.”
Hamilton’s words come at a time when the Ferrari fan base is particularly divided. On the one hand, there are those who defend him to the hilt and still ask for patience, convinced that the seven-time world champion’s value will also emerge in red. On the other hand, there are those who hope for a generational change, seeing in Ollie Bearman the future of the Scuderia. In the middle is Charles Leclerc, who is having a fairly solid season so far and who, barring shocks that would have the resounding, does not seem at all destined to leave Maranello.
The debate remains open and Hamilton knows it well, and his words do not close the discussions: the Briton promises to stay, to fight and to grow, but the track so far has told a different story. The upcoming weekend could become a crossroads in his season and perhaps his future at Ferrari. A strong response would rekindle enthusiasm, while a misstep would risk making the clouds over his head even darker.
