In a stunning turn of events that could reshape the landscape of Formula 1, Johnny Herbert has raised alarms over Lewis Hamilton’s precarious position at Ferrari, suggesting that Carlos Sainz may be poised to take his place amid a deepening crisis. What was once heralded as a monumental partnership between the seven-time world champion and the iconic Scuderia is now teetering on the brink of collapse, with Hamilton’s struggles in the SF25 raising serious questions about his future.

Hamilton’s contract with Ferrari runs until the end of 2026, but his inability to adapt to the new car has led to a series of disappointing performances that have left fans and pundits alike questioning his mental state. The recent qualifying session in Hungary was a particularly low point, as Hamilton was eliminated in Q2, citing persistent stability issues with the car. His emotional admission to the media, “I’m useless,” sent shockwaves through the paddock, igniting speculation about his confidence and mental well-being.

Even more concerning were Hamilton’s cryptic comments hinting at turmoil behind the scenes at Ferrari. His vague acknowledgment of “something going on” has fueled intense speculation about internal strife within the team, a rare public admission from a squad known for its secrecy. Herbert, drawing from his own experiences in F1, interprets these words as a potential signal of an impending split. “If things don’t improve, they need to ensure the next driver is ready for next year,” Herbert stated, suggesting that Ferrari may already be preparing for a future without Hamilton.

The implications are staggering; for a team with Ferrari’s ambition and storied history, patience is a luxury they cannot afford. While some may speculate about the possibility of Max Verstappen stepping into Hamilton’s shoes, Herbert dismissed that notion, highlighting Verstappen’s commitment to Red Bull. Instead, he pointed to Sainz, who was unceremoniously replaced by Hamilton earlier this season. “Carlos did a fantastic job at Ferrari and could really compete with Charles Leclerc,” Herbert noted, emphasizing Sainz’s potential return as a viable option.

The irony of Ferrari potentially seeking to reinstate a driver they let go earlier this year underscores the urgency of the situation. Sainz’s impressive performances during his tenure at Ferrari starkly contrast with his current struggles at Williams, where he has faced significant challenges. This situation illustrates the critical role a competitive car plays in a driver’s success, and Hamilton’s ongoing issues with the SF25 suggest fundamental problems that may not be easily resolved.

Hamilton’s adaptability has been a hallmark of his career, yet the SF25 appears to present unique challenges that he has yet to overcome. The stability issues he has repeatedly cited point to possible aerodynamic or mechanical flaws that could require extensive development time—time that Ferrari may not have if results do not improve swiftly.

Ferrari’s history with world champions is fraught with complexities, often marked by political pressures that have led to disappointing outcomes. Hamilton’s current predicament mirrors past controversies, where high expectations clashed with harsh realities. The dynamic with teammate Charles Leclerc cannot be ignored; as Ferrari’s franchise player, Leclerc’s established rapport with the team complicates Hamilton’s situation as a second superstar.

The pressure on Hamilton is immense—not just from within the team, but from the passionate tifosi, who demand immediate results. This external pressure might be exacerbating Hamilton’s performance issues, leading to a mental struggle that is rare for someone of his caliber.

Herbert’s speculations come at a critical juncture, with the summer break providing teams an opportunity to reassess their strategies for the remainder of the season. The future of Hamilton at Ferrari hangs in the balance, with upcoming races poised to be pivotal. A resurgence in performance could quell the growing speculation, while continued struggles may force both Hamilton and Ferrari to confront uncomfortable realities.

As the F1 world watches closely, Hamilton’s future will not only impact his illustrious career but also the trajectory of Ferrari as they strive to reclaim their championship status. With Herbert’s insights ringing in the paddock, the stakes have never been higher. Will Hamilton rise to the occasion, or is a dramatic change on the horizon? The next chapter of this gripping saga is about to unfold.