Grand Prix Tours
Grand Prix Tours

Call Us(949) 719-3350

Follow Us
  • Home
  • Tour Experiences
  • About Us
    • Why Book With Us
    • What to Expect
    • Testimonials
  • News & Media
    • Formula 1 News
    • Sign Up for F1 Newsletter
    • Talk Shows
    • Tour Photo
  • Pick8
  • Contact Us
    • Terms and Conditions
    • Reservation Form
    • Travel Advisory
  • Sign Up for F1 Newsletter
  1. Home
  2. News
  3. Insiders tip imminent retirement for Hamilton

Racing News

Insiders tip imminent retirement for Hamilton

Apr.24 (GMM) A surprise contender to potentially snap up Max Verstappen for 2026 has emerged.

Observant reporters in Saudi Arabia last weekend heard Fernando Alonso list three leading candidates in the event that the reigning world champion quits Red Bull.

“The teams that are being mentioned are Mercedes, Aston Martin, and Ferrari, as your colleague said,” he told Sky Italia’s Vicky Piria.

Charles Leclerc is the firmly established and on-form Ferrari driver, so Verstappen arriving would almost certainly require Lewis Hamilton to retire after just a single season in red.

Ralf Schumacher, the younger brother of Ferrari’s most successful driver in history, Michael, thinks it really is possible that 40-year-old Hamilton will step away.

“He just can’t handle the car,” the former Formula 1 driver told Sky Deutschland. “We talk a lot about Lando Norris, but it’s worse with Lewis.

“He’s really slumped,” Schumacher added. “Obviously, for some reason, it’s just not working out.

“I know from my own experience – if things continue like this, it’s no fun anymore. Then he’ll wake up one morning and think ‘Why am I doing this to myself?’ I’m not having fun anymore and I’m getting in the way of my team’.”

While Schumacher’s view might seem radical, the German thinks there are plenty of reasons why an off-form seven time world champion could jump out of a contract ahead of time.

Imagining Hamilton’s conversation with himself, Schumacher said: “I want to live my life now, I’m 40 years old, I’m so rich.”

The 6-time grand prix winner continued: “What Ferrari and Hamilton had planned is a huge project, but at the moment, he’s a long way from Leclerc. I would never have thought it would be this extreme.”

Sport1 also quotes Schumacher as saying: “Lewis seems desperate and confused, both in what he says and in his body language. I hope he turns things around, but I fear he’ll hang up his helmet before his contract ends.”

If Hamilton does retire, a top candidate to replace him must surely be Max Verstappen. Red Bull advisor Dr Helmut Marko agrees with Schumacher’s view about the British driver.

“Hamilton does indeed seem desperate. But I believe he’s waiting for 2026, hoping that Ferrari will not only hit the jackpot with that car, but also that it will be a car that he can handle better,” said the Austrian.

Finally, former F1 driver Marc Surer thinks it’s possible Ferrari will also nudge Hamilton towards the exit.

“Whether Hamilton decides to retire is one thing,” he said. “But at some point, merchandising sales will no longer matter to Ferrari because the success is lacking.

“Then Ferrari will ask Lewis if he wants to retire – especially because they know that a certain Max Verstappen might be on the market.”

Share This:

Featured Tour:

Indy 500

The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!

SHOW PACKAGES

Upcoming Tours:

Monaco Grand Prix

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


Austrian Grand Prix

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


British Grand Prix

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


Goodwood Festival of Speed

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


Canadian Grand Prix

Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!

SHOW PACKAGES


TOURS

  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Newsletter Sign Up
  • Reservation Form
  • Privacy Policy

GRAND PRIX TOURS

  • About Us
  • Contact Us
  • Newsletter Sign Up
  • Reservation Form
  • Privacy Policy

Contact Us

  • ADDRESS

    26 Corporate Plaza, STE. 150
    Newport Beach, CA 92660
    United States

  • PHONE

    (949) 719-3350

FOLLOW US

© 2025 Grand Prix Tours, Inc. All rights reserved.