Fans Doubt Hamilton Will Win 8th Title After Tough Ferrari Debut

A recent poll reveals that a majority of Formula 1 fans believe Lewis Hamilton's quest for a record-breaking eighth drivers' title is over. The skepticism follows a deeply disappointing 2025 season with Ferrari, where the seven-time champion was significantly outperformed by his teammate and failed to secure a single podium finish for the first time in his illustrious career.

Why it matters:

Hamilton's high-profile move to Ferrari was billed as the final, dramatic chapter of his legendary career, offering one last shot at an unprecedented eighth championship. The stark reality of his 2025 performance has shaken public confidence, raising concerns that his struggles were more than just adaptation issues. This fan sentiment reflects a belief that Ferrari may not be able to provide the championship-winning machinery he needs, potentially cementing his legacy at seven titles.

The details:

• The Verdict: A RacingNews365 poll found that 57.1% of fans believe Hamilton will retire as a seven-time world champion. A substantial minority of 42.9% remain optimistic he can still add to his tally.
• A Season to Forget: Hamilton finished 6th in the 2025 drivers' standings with just 156 points, marking his worst result since his rookie season.
• Teammate Battle: He was comprehensively outperformed by Charles Leclerc, who finished 5th with 242 points. The 86-point deficit to his teammate highlighted significant adaptation issues during his transition from Mercedes.
• Historic Drought: For the first time in his 22-year F1 career, Hamilton failed to finish a single grand prix on the podium, a stunning statistic for a driver of his caliber.

What's next:

The glimmer of hope for Hamilton and his supporters lies in the massive regulatory overhaul set for 2026. The new rules, which introduce lighter cars and revolutionary hybrid powertrains, are expected to reset the competitive order across the grid. This presents a crucial opportunity for Ferrari to build a championship-contending car from the ground up, potentially giving Hamilton one last legitimate shot at making history and silencing the doubters.