Bernie Ecclestone doesn’t believe Lewis Hamilton will ever make a comeback in Formula 1. The outspoken former F1 boss, who previously suggested Hamilton should retire, is now doubling down on his criticism.
Hamilton’s high-profile move to Ferrari was supposed to be his path to that record-breaking eighth world title.
But things aren’t working out as planned.
The British driver is nowhere near championship form this season. He’s struggling to make an impact and regularly finishing behind his teammate Charles Leclerc.
It’s a tough situation for a driver who once dominated the sport.
Hamilton’s difficulties with the current F1 cars are well-documented. These aren’t just Ferrari problems – he faced similar issues during his final years at Mercedes too.
## Looking ahead to 2026
Ferrari has pinned its hopes on the major technical regulation changes coming in 2026. The team believes these new rules could give them a competitive car – one that might finally put Hamilton back in the title fight.
Many wonder if the 2026 car design might better suit Hamilton’s driving style.
But Ecclestone isn’t buying it.
“The safety car will win a race before Hamilton becomes world champion again,” the 93-year-old former F1 boss declared bluntly to F1-Insider.
That’s a pretty harsh assessment from one British racing legend about another.
For Hamilton, who’s still chasing that record-breaking eighth championship, time isn’t on his side. He’ll be 41 when the new regulations arrive in 2026.
