Lewis Hamilton will retire from F1 at the end of the 2026 season if Ferrari cannot deliver a competitive car, according to Guenther Steiner.
The former Haas team principal believes the British driver will not "put himself through that again" if the Scuderia cannot right the wrongs of the campaign just run.
Arriving at Maranello on a wave of optimism and anticipation, the seven-time F1 drivers' champion teaming up with the iconic Italian outfit fell well short of expectations.
Ferrari was coming off finishing second in the constructors' championship and was poised to fight for a first title since 2008, but the SF-25 disappointed — and Hamilton underwhelmed.
The 40-year-old routinely cut a dispondent and dejected figure when speaking to media, as he stumbled to the first podium-less season of his career.
However, Steiner still has faith that the 105-time grand prix winner can recapture his form. But he does believe it will be contingent upon Ferrari delivering a car to match his abilities.
"I believe if Ferrari has a good car next season, it's possible," The Italian told Sport Krone when asked if he felt Hamilton could turn the situation around.
He was, nonetheless, quick to highlight the challenge of sharing a garage with Charles Leclerc, who outscored Hamilton by 86 points in 2025.
"We must never forget that he has a very good team-mate in Charles Leclerc," the 60-year-old added.
"Leclerc has made it onto the podium a few times, but hasn't won a race. With this car, though, a podium finish was a respectable achievement."
With the F1 regulations overhaul bringing brand new chassis and power units, there is every opportunity for Ferrari to revive its fortunes after a winless campaign.
To Steiner, that alone will be key to determining Hamilton's future beyond 2026, labelling it a "pivotal season" for the Ferrari driver.
"If they're more competitive next season, Lewis will be able to find his motivation again," He explained.
"But if things continue as they are, next season will certainly be his last in Formula 1. He's not going to put himself through that again.
"The situation is very difficult for him, as was evident in every interview. So, it will be a pivotal season for him."
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