Villeneuve: A ‘real confrontation’ awaits Hamilton in 2026

Former F1 driver Jacques Villeneuve has cautioned that Lewis Hamilton’s current struggles at Ferrari are merely a prelude to a much bigger test that awaits the seven-time world champion in 2026.

Hamilton’s move to Ferrari was billed as a seismic shift in F1, ending over a decade-long alliance with Mercedes. But aside from a sprint race win in China, the Briton has yet to find consistent form in red.

In contrast, his teammate Charles Leclerc has scored five podiums and continues to lead the charge at the Scuderia.

Hamilton’s difficulties were starkly evident at the Hungarian Grand Prix last weekend, where he started and finished 12th at a track where he holds a record eight wins. His frustration spilled over as he called himself “useless” and suggested Ferrari find another driver.

Villeneuve, speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, expressed surprise at Hamilton’s despondency while acknowledging the cultural shift he faces.

“Lewis has had completely different experiences in Formula 1 and has always worked with the English and German methods in the past. Now he realises how different everything is at Ferrari,” Villeneuve said.

“It’s certainly surprising to see him so demoralised. There always seems to be some confusion at Ferrari about decisions and communication, even over the radio, and that doesn’t help his adaptation.”

A Confrontation Awaits in 2026

While Leclerc, now in his seventh season with Ferrari, continues to navigate the team’s chaotic dynamics with ease, Hamilton is wrestling with a car not designed for his style or demands.

Yet Villeneuve believes the real challenge for the Briton isn’t the current struggles – it’s what lies ahead, when F1’s new regulations come into play.

“Next year will be the real confrontation with Leclerc,” Villeneuve said.

“This car was not designed for Hamilton, and with the new regulations, everything will be turned upside down again in 2026.

“However, there was a lot of attention and expectation surrounding his arrival, and there is no denying that the initial period has been undoubtedly disappointing.”

Schumacher: Hamilton Must Decide His Future

Villeneuve’s former F1 colleague and current Sky Germany commentator, Ralf Schumacher, added another layer to the discussion, suggesting retirement is a possibility.

“It’s not out of the question,” Schumacher said of Hamilton possibly throwing in the towel.

“At Ferrari, they’re not turning a blind eye either. In my view, he either has to say: I’m hanging up my helmet, or he has to say: now more than ever.”

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• Brundle: 'Painful to observe’ Hamilton locked in Ferrari nightmare

For Schumacher, Hamilton remains a threat under the right circumstances – but the consistency is gone.

“Silverstone last year and China this year: when everything’s just right, he’s lightning fast. He just needs everything to work out for him. He worked hard for that with Mercedes, but now he just doesn’t have it anymore.”

While 2025 may offer Hamilton more time to adjust, Villeneuve is convinced that 2026 will be the real litmus test – when everyone starts fresh under the new regulations.

With expectations sky-high and pressure mounting, Hamilton's Ferrari chapter continues to unfold – but the real drama, Villeneuve warns, has yet to begin.

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