The 2026 Formula 1 season hasn’t even started yet, but several rumors are already starting to gain momentum within the category. One of them is that seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton is planning to retire this year, right after pre-season testing.
Is the information correct? THE Sporting News explains.
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Will Lewis Hamilton retire in 2026?
Behind-the-scenes conversations about Hamilton’s possible retirement have grown especially since last year and take into account two points: the driver’s age, who turned 41 on January 7, and his troubled debut with Ferrari.
The profile Cameron, from
According to reports, Hamilton’s assessment of the new car and the competitiveness of the Italian team will be decisive for the continuation of his career in Formula 1. If the Brit realizes that he will not have real conditions to fight for victories and titles, retirement even before the start of the season would not be ruled out.
Although little talked about, the possibility of retirement this year is not completely ruled out. Aston Martin chief engineer Dan Fallows, in an interview with the ‘James Allen on F1’ podcast, said he believed Hamilton could retire, but he would handle the situation transparently.
— If he retires, he will probably notify Ferrari in advance, so that the team has time to look for a replacement — he explained.
🚨 According to insiders, if Lewis Hamilton is not happy with Ferrari testing in Bahrain, he might retire from F1 before the season starts. #F1 pic.twitter.com/OZfjTmNtE8
— Cameron (@CxmeronCc) January 16, 2026
Who would replace Hamilton at Ferrari?
Among the possible successors, one name emerges strongly: Ollie Bearman. Still, it would not be the only alternative. Hamilton’s eventual departure would free up other pieces on the board, causing chain movements across the grid.
Thus, the Briton’s decision would not only affect Ferrari, but the entire Formula 1 market, with a potential impact for several seasons.
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