Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton's long-awaited switch to Ferrari is already under close examination, with the British driver struggling through one of the toughest starts to a Formula 1 campaign in his career.

With rumors of early retirement about the 40-year-old athlete, insiders and past drivers are already asking if Hamilton will complete his deal with the Scuderia.

Outpaced by Leclerc, Outclassed by Rivals

Lewis Hamilton Retirement Rumors: Is the British Racer Quitting Amid Lewis Hamilton Retirement Rumors: Is the British Racer Quitting Amid
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Hamilton, who signed for Ferrari with great expectations in 2025, is still in seventh position in the drivers' championship tally with only 31 points after five race weekends. He's been systematically outpaced by teammate Charles Leclerc, who has beaten him in qualifying in four of the five races and now has a 16-point advantage over the former Mercedes legend, according to GP Fans.

Despite a brief moment of glory with a sprint race win in China, Hamilton has struggled to adapt to Ferrari's underwhelming car. The performance gap between him and Charles Leclerc has raised eyebrows in the paddock—and among F1 legends.

Ralf Schumacher Rings Retirement Alarm

Ex-F1 race winner Ralf Schumacher has publicly doubted Hamilton's future in the sport. Talking to Sport1 before the Miami Grand Prix, Schumacher claimed Hamilton "appears confused and desperate," pointing to the Briton's body language and public statements as signs of alarm.

Schumacher said that he knew from experience that there were times he woke up in the morning only to realize "there's no point in continuing to race."

"You don't want to stand in your team's way. I hope Lewis turns things around, but I fear he'll hang up his helmet before his contract ends," the six-time Grand Prix champion added.

Hamilton's Contract Will Last Until 2026, But Will He Stay?

Hamilton is under contract with Ferrari until the 2026 F1 season, which will usher in sweeping regulation changes. The new rules may change the competitive balance dramatically, holding out hope that Ferrari can provide a title-challenging car in the not-too-distant future. But with his recent struggles, few are wondering if Hamilton will last that long.

Red Bull's Helmut Marko Weighs In

Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko also offered a candid take on Hamilton's future, telling Sport1 that Hamilton "does indeed seem desperate." However, Marko believes the British star is holding out for Ferrari's 2026 car in the hope that it will reignite his competitive fire and suit his driving style better.

There's a possibility Hamilton wants to discover a second "wind," and there's a part that he could retire from his beloved sport anytime soon. But whatever happens, the coming months will be pivotal in determining the destiny and legacy of one of the greatest drivers ever to have appeared in Formula 1.