Lewis Hamilton future all depends on one condition in 2026 amid retirement talk

Lewis Hamilton is certain to retire from Formula 1 if Ferrari are unable to compete at the top of the Driver’s Championship in 2026.

That’s according to former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner, who believes it will be a ‘pivotal’ season for the racing icon.

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Hamilton struggled through a nightmare first year after his move to Ferrari, finishing sixth in the F1 standings with 156 points.

He was 86 points behind teammate Charles Leclerc, failing to finish on the podium at all in a full campaign for the first time ever.

And during the season, the seven-time champion often spoke openly about his disappointment at how his Ferrari debut went.

Speaking in November after the Las Vegas Grand Prix, he told Sky Sports: “I feel terrible. It’s been the worst season ever and no matter how much I try, it just keeps getting worse.

“I’m trying everything in and out of the car.”

Hamilton appeared disconsolate on many occasions throughout the season, as he was unable to challenge for race wins.

And should that continue into 2026, Steiner thinks that he will definitely be calling time on his incredible career.

The ex-Haas chief told Sports Krone: “I believe if Ferrari has a good car next season, it’s possible [that Hamilton can turn things around].”

“If they’re more competitive next season, Lewis will be able to find his motivation again.

“But if things continue as they are, next season will certainly be his last in Formula 1.

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“He’s not going to put himself through that again.

“The situation is very difficult for him, as was evident in every interview. So, it will be a pivotal season for him.”

What has Hamilton said about retirement?

Hamilton has refused to entertain the talk of potential retirement when asked about his F1 future by the media.

Following the end of the season, the 40-year-old was asked what he would say to people who believe he could retire soon.

And he defiantly replied: “I wouldn’t say anything to them.

“None of them has done what I’ve done, so they don’t know anything more than I do.”

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In the summer, Hamilton also made the vow to remain at Ferrari until the end of his contract after rumours of an early exit.

“To everyone who’s writing stories of me considering not racing, I’ve literally only just started here with Ferrari,” he said.

“I’m here for several years and I’m here for the long haul, so there is no question in where my head’s at and what I’m working towards achieving at this team.

“There’s zero doubts, so please stop making up stuff.”

In 2026, Hamilton’s future in F1 is sure to remain a talking point, especially if Ferrari continue to struggle under new regulations.

And if Steiner is right with his prediction, another year of failing to challenge for another championship could spell the end for him.