'Time for Change is Now': Hamilton Reflects on 'Draining Year' and Looks Ahead

Lewis Hamilton marked his 41st birthday with a reflective social media post, declaring "the time for change is now" after what he called a "very draining year." The seven-time world champion, coming off his first season without a podium at Ferrari, pledged to "unplug from the matrix" and embrace new routines ahead of the 2026 campaign, signaling a personal and professional reset.

Why it matters:

Hamilton's message is more than a seasonal greeting; it's a public acknowledgment of the mental and professional toll of his challenging 2025 season. For a driver of his stature, openly discussing a "draining year" and the need to "let go" highlights the immense pressure in F1. His mindset and ability to reset will be critical for Ferrari as they aim to bounce back and provide him with a car capable of returning to the top step.

The details:

• Hamilton posted on Instagram, expressing gratitude for the break to "disconnect, recharge and find a bit of inner peace" with family and friends.
• He explicitly called 2025 a "very draining year," a sentiment he's shared before by labeling it the "worst season ever" after finishing sixth in the championship.
• The seven-time champion used the Chinese zodiac as a metaphor, stating, "we're entering the Year of the Horse and leaving behind the Year of the Snake," reinforcing his theme of change and leaving behind unwanted patterns.
• He thanked his fans for their support, noting they reminded him to "be you and never forget who you are" during the difficult season, a lesson he said he'll "never forget again!"

What's next:

All eyes will be on Hamilton and Ferrari when the 2026 season kicks off to see if this period of reflection translates into on-track results. The team is already working on its next challenger, aiming to provide both Hamilton and Charles Leclerc with a car capable of consistently fighting for wins and podiums. Hamilton's mental reset could be a crucial factor in a potential Ferrari resurgence.