Max Verstappen expressed that Lewis Hamilton’s challenging 2025 Formula 1 season was “unpleasant to witness.”
Even with a sprint win during the Chinese Grand Prix, Hamilton frequently found it difficult to compete with his teammate Charles Leclerc, and he couldn’t secure even one podium placement in his first year with Ferrari.
Towards the close of the season, the seven-time world champion appeared noticeably distressed and confused by his failure to extract maximum performance from the challenging SF-25 vehicle.
This particular season was, by nearly all measures, the most difficult of Hamilton’s 19-year Formula 1 career, and Max Verstappen, a four-time world champion who achieved significant triumphs competing against the British driver, felt sorrow over the circumstances.
“Clearly, it wasn’t a strong season for him,” the Dutch racer shared with Viaplay. “It’s evident from various indicators, such as the radio communications.”
“That must be genuinely painful,” the interviewer commented, prompting Verstappen to respond: “Honestly, it is for me as well. I dislike witnessing such a situation. I’m unsure about him retiring. He isn’t one to surrender, so he will certainly remain active. However, it’s not a pleasant sight.”
The mention of “quitting” pertained to speculations regarding Hamilton’s premature retirement, which the 40-year-old quickly dismissed. He is set to become the fourth-oldest F1 driver in the 21st century in the upcoming year.
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing, Fernando Alonso, Aston Martin Racing
Photo by: Red Bull Content Pool
Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin holds an unmatched position in that area; the two-time world champion, whose F1 career began in 2001, will reach 45 years of age during the 2026 season. He already stands as the most senior F1 driver since Graham Hill in 1975 and continues to spearhead Aston Martin’s campaign in the world championship, showing distinct superiority over his teammate Lance Stroll.
However, Verstappen cautions that the challenges intensify with age, and he certainly does not intend to remain in the sport for such an extended period: “I believe the primary loss… pertains more to physical ailments. You experience increased discomfort. These vehicles are inherently not the most comfortable to operate.
“As one ages, physical ailments naturally become more pronounced. Your shoulder, your back, your neck. I find that it demands greater exertion to maintain overall physical condition. Consequently, this necessitates a significantly increased level of attention.”
“From my personal perspective, I anticipate that by the time I reach 40 or 44… I will not possess the same capabilities as I do presently. Furthermore, my motivation might also diminish. And if one isn’t piloting a leading car, then certainly not.
“I believe if Fernando were positioned in a premier vehicle then… Similar to 2023, you understand, he could contend for a podium finish. That’s when you observe his competitive spirit re-emerge. But after having secured two world championships… and achieving numerous victories… and you find yourself racing for tenth place… Indeed, at that point, you ponder [what is the purpose of this?].”
Further contributions provided by Filip Cleeren
