Dec.6 (GMM) Rumours of a shock and sudden Lewis Hamilton retirement have erupted in the Abu Dhabi paddock – despite the seven-time world champion insisting only days ago that he had no intention of walking away after his disastrous first season with Ferrari.
The 40-year-old, who has endured the worst campaign of his long career, answered in November when asked if he will quit: “No, no, no.”
But the speculation has flared again, with former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher bluntly declaring in Abu Dhabi that Ferrari should consider ending the partnership now.
“From my point of view, they should bring in Oliver Bearman,” he said.
“He’s delivering superb performances at Haas and will also be the future for Ferrari. Bearman and Leclerc would be a great team for 2026.”
Schumacher said Hamilton is still capable of speed “when the car is right”, but argued that age is the defining factor.
“At almost 41 he can no longer change his driving style,” said the German. “That’s the big risk for next year.
“Of course it’s possible the new concept might suit him, but the probability is very low. He won’t be able to do it anymore. I can only hope he draws a conclusion at the end of the year and says: ‘I can’t continue like this.'”
Hamilton’s back-to-back Q1 exits in Las Vegas and Qatar illustrate the depth of Ferrari’s problems – a slump he admitted he partly triggered himself by urging Fred Vasseur to stop development of the SF-25 so early.
“We had anticipated it would be difficult,” Hamilton told media. “But it’s worse than expected. I was one of those who asked Fred not to develop the car any further. We couldn’t afford to fall behind on the 2026 project.”
Despite the crisis, Charles Leclerc offered an unexpectedly warm defence of his embattled teammate.
“I’ve learned an enormous amount from Lewis,” he told L’Equipe.
“Before his arrival, I was more guided by my gut feeling,” Leclerc said. “Lewis is extremely conscientious and precise, and I’m now much more attentive to the numbers. When he arrived, I had a lot to learn. Being able to compare myself to him was a huge motivation. I never felt in his shadow.”
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES