Lewis Hamilton’s highly anticipated move to Ferrari was supposed to mark the start of a fairytale chapter in his legendary Formula 1 career. But just six races into the 2025 season, storm clouds are gathering over Maranello — and Hamilton himself has now admitted there’s a real possibility his Ferrari adventure could end earlier than anyone expected.

Speaking candidly after another disappointing weekend at the Miami Grand Prix, where he finished eighth, Hamilton opened up about the mounting frustrations inside the team and hinted at what might push him to walk away.

“When I joined Ferrari, I came here with the highest hopes,” Hamilton told reporters. “But right now, it feels like we’re not living up to the potential we have. I’m here to win, not just to participate — and if I ever feel like I’m just making up the numbers, that’s when I’ll have to ask myself some hard questions.”

Hamilton’s patience appeared to snap over the radio during the race when he sarcastically asked his team, “Why don’t you have a tea break?” as they hesitated to make a call on whether Charles Leclerc should let him through.

“Look, I’m a competitive person,” Hamilton explained post-race. “When you’re out there giving it everything and you’re stuck behind, waiting for decisions that never come, it’s tough. It’s not just about me — it’s about the whole team pushing in the same direction. If we can’t get that right, I don’t know how long I can stay motivated.”

Hamilton has so far scored just 41 points this season, an astonishing 90 behind championship leader Oscar Piastri, while Ferrari languishes in fourth in the Constructors’ standings, more than 150 points adrift of McLaren.

Asked directly if he could consider leaving Ferrari mid-season, Hamilton didn’t rule it out: “I’ve always said I need to stay true to myself. If I wake up one morning and feel I’m not enjoying it, or I’m not bringing the best out of myself or the team, then I need to have an honest conversation with myself. But right now, I’m still fighting.”

As for life after F1, Hamilton gave a glimpse into his future plans: “When I retire, it won’t be because I’m running away. It’ll be because I feel fulfilled. I want to focus more on my foundation, I want to continue my work on diversity and inclusion, and I want to explore the creative world — music, fashion, maybe even film. Racing is a huge part of my life, but it’s not the only part.”

Despite the troubles, Hamilton was careful not to burn bridges just yet: “I have so much respect for everyone at Ferrari. These people work day and night to give me a competitive car. We’re in this together — but of course, patience has its limits.”

The coming races may well determine whether this is just an early bump in the road or the start of one of the most sensational mid-season splits Formula 1 has ever seen.