The world of Formula 1 is no stranger to drama, but the latest comments from former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone have sent shockwaves through the paddock. At 94 years of age, Ecclestone has never been one to mince his words, and his latest target is none other than seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. In a stunning declaration, Ecclestone has urged Ferrari to replace Hamilton with rookie sensation Gabriel Bortoletto, claiming that the British driver is “tired” and in need of a “total reset” from motor racing.

This bombshell comes amidst a turbulent season for Ferrari and their new star driver. Hamilton’s much-anticipated move to the iconic Italian team has been far from the dream debut many had envisioned. While there have been flashes of brilliance, particularly in sprint races, his performances in the main Grand Prix events have been lackluster. The SF25, Ferrari’s challenger for the 2025 season, has proven to be a difficult beast to tame, with both Hamilton and his teammate Charles Leclerc struggling with its unpredictable nature.

The car’s suspension issues and instability, particularly after ride-height adjustments, have been a constant source of frustration for the drivers. This has led to a growing sense of unease within the team, with Leclerc openly expressing his disappointment after the Hungarian Grand Prix. The Monegasque driver felt that Ferrari had squandered a golden opportunity for victory, a sentiment that has been echoed by many of the team’s loyal supporters, the Tifosi.

Leclerc, who has committed his long-term future to the Scuderia, has emphasized the critical need for Ferrari to hit the ground running with the new regulations in 2026. He fears that another slow start could see them fall even further behind their rivals. His faith in the team’s direction and the leadership of team principal Frederic Vasseur remains unwavering, but the pressure is mounting on all fronts.

Vasseur, for his part, has been a picture of calm and optimism. Despite the team’s current struggles, he remains confident that they can still challenge McLaren for the best-of-the-rest spot behind the dominant forces of Red Bull and Mercedes. He has pointed to the significant investment Ferrari is making in their 2026 car as a reason for optimism, believing that the new regulations will provide them with a golden opportunity to return to the front of the grid.

However, the team’s current performance has done little to quell the growing sense of unease. Former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya has suggested that Hamilton’s difficulties may stem from a clash of philosophies between his driving style and Ferrari’s engineering approach. He has urged patience, drawing parallels with Carlos Sainz Jr.’s initial struggles at the team before he eventually found his footing and delivered strong performances.

But patience is a commodity that is in short supply in the high-stakes world of Formula 1, and Ecclestone’s comments have only served to turn up the heat. His suggestion that Hamilton should negotiate with Ferrari to step aside while still being paid his full contract is a controversial one, but it speaks to the growing belief in some quarters that the seven-time world champion may have lost his edge.

At 40 years of age, Hamilton is in the twilight of his illustrious career. While his talent and determination are undeniable, the physical and mental toll of competing at the highest level of motorsport for over two decades is bound to have an effect. Ecclestone’s assertion that he is “tired” may be a blunt one, but it is a sentiment that has been whispered in the paddock for some time.

The suggestion that Ferrari should replace him with Gabriel Bortoletto is a bold one, but it is not without merit. The young Brazilian is a rising star in the world of motorsport, having impressed in the junior formulas with his raw speed and natural talent. A move to Ferrari would be a huge step up for the rookie, but it would also be a clear statement of intent from the Italian team.

For now, Ferrari remains publicly committed to Hamilton. Vasseur has been quick to dismiss Ecclestone’s comments, reaffirming his faith in the British driver. But the pressure is on, and if Hamilton’s struggles continue, the calls for a change will only grow louder. The coming races will be crucial for both Hamilton and Ferrari. They will need to find a way to unlock the potential of the SF25 and deliver the results that are expected of a team of their stature. The eyes of the world will be watching, and the drama is only just beginning.