Lewis Hamilton has emphatically shut down speculation about his Formula 1 retirement, confirming he remains under contract with Ferrari through the 2027 season and plans to continue racing for “quite some time.” The seven-time world champion pushed back against critics who have suggested he should step aside, stating he is “still motivated” and loves the sport “with all my heart.”
The 40-year-old British driver made his intentions crystal clear when asked about his future plans, declaring that everything is “100% clear” regarding his Ferrari commitment. Hamilton’s multi-year deal with the Italian team, believed to be a three-year contract signed when he joined from Mercedes, would see him racing until age 42 if he completes the full term through 2027.
Hamilton’s renewed confidence comes after a challenging 2025 season where he struggled to adapt to Ferrari’s machinery. However, the start of the current campaign has shown marked improvement following personnel changes on his side of the garage. Former race engineer Riccardo Adami stepped aside, with Carlo Santi now serving as Hamilton’s engineer on an interim basis.
The Ferrari driver directly addressed those calling for his retirement, including former F1 driver turned pundit Ralf Schumacher, who recently suggested both Hamilton and 44-year-old Fernando Alonso should “give young people a chance” rather than continue competing. Hamilton dismissed such calls, stating: “There’s a lot of people that are trying to retire me. And that’s not even on my thoughts. I’m already thinking of what will be next and planning for the next five years.”