Whether or not he activates an extension depends on a variety of factors, but Ferrari<\/a> must prove to him that they can win in the future for staying to be worthwhile.<\/p>\n The Briton wants a record eighth drivers\u2019 championship<\/a>, but he\u2019s going to struggle to do so while battling in the midfield. From next year, he needs a car capable of fighting at the front.<\/p>\n Hamilton raised three critical points<\/a> and has already set about advising his team where their operation must improve to enjoy success in the future.<\/p>\n It has led Ferrari to \u2018experiment\u2019 with Hamilton\u2019s 2026 car<\/a>, as they look to extract every possible bit of performance that they can from project \u2018678\u2019.<\/p>\n READ MORE: The Lewis Hamilton pre-season prediction Martin Brundle nailed before his 2025 Ferrari debut<\/a><\/p>\n Hamilton\u2019s crucial Ferrari contract clause<\/a> gives him the right to decide whether he wants to continue in Formula 1<\/a> or not beyond 2026.<\/p>\n Either way, his tenure at the Maranello-based outfit won\u2019t last more than a few years unless he pulls a Fernando Alonso-esque move.<\/p>\n Therefore, Ferrari need to plan for the future. Who do they replace the seven-time champion with when he leaves?<\/p>\n Oliver Bearman<\/a> is the obvious option as a junior driver at Haas, but he still has a lot of development ahead to be ready for the gig.<\/p>\n The most sensible option would be to turn to Carlos Sainz<\/a>, their ex-driver, and offer him a deal. He has experience, knows the team well, and might be fed up with Williams if they can\u2019t compete in 2026.<\/p>\n Being beaten by teammate Alex Albon most weeks can\u2019t be fun, so a new opportunity is something he might relish.<\/p>\n![\"Lewis](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/GettyImages-2227606201-1-1024x683.jpg\")
Photo by Nicolas Economou\/NurPhoto via Getty ImagesFerrari have to overlook Oliver Bearman and sign Carlos Sainz when Lewis Hamilton retires<\/p>\n