Ex-F1 team boss reveals what could make Hamilton competitive in 2026

The 60-year-old, reflecting on Hamilton and Scuderia Ferrari, stressed that the British driver could rediscover his best form if the Italian team delivers a competitive car.

“I believe if Ferrari has a good car next season, it’s possible. We must never forget that he has a very good teammate in Charles Leclerc. Leclerc has made it onto the podium a few times, but hasn’t won a race. With this car, though, a podium finish was a respectable achievement. If they’re more competitive next season, Lewis will be able to find his motivation again,” Steiner said via Austrian outlet Krone.

The former F1 team principal, however, concluded by stating that in any case the Ferrari team fails to deliver a competitive car in 2026, he doesn’t see Hamilton continuing beyond the season.

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

Hamilton’s debut season at Ferrari unfolded in a far departure from what many had envisaged following the announcement of his move from the Mercedes team. The British driver failed to record any top-three finishes throughout the campaign, etching his name into several unwanted records in the team.

Former F1 team owner Peter Sauber has revealed how his team missed out on signing Hamilton.

The Swiss motorsport chief said he held negotiations with the McLaren outfit over the signing of the British driver, but a deal failed to materialise.

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