As the Formula 1Competition·Formula 1 paddock convenes for the prestigious Monaco Grand PrixCompetition·Monaco Grand Prix, seven-time world champion Lewis HamiltonPlayer·Lewis Hamilton has stated that discussions regarding a contract extension with FerrariTeam·Ferrari are not currently underway. Hamilton, who joined the Maranello outfit at the start of the 2025 season, is presently under a "2+1 year" agreement, with the option to activate the 2027 season clause resting with the driver.
Despite his clear ambitions to continue competing in Formula 1Competition·Formula 1 for an extended period, the British driver indicated that there is ample time before any formal negotiations commence. "No, there is still time," Hamilton responded when questioned about the status of contract talks. "I still have quite a lot of time. These are not thoughts or conversations I'm getting involved in right now."
This update follows the recent announcement of a contract extension for Hamilton's teammate, Charles LeclercPlayer·Charles Leclerc. The Monegasque driver's new deal with FerrariTeam·Ferrari is reportedly secured until the end of the 2028 season, a significant commitment from the Scuderia, though the official duration was not publicly disclosed. While Leclerc's new terms are said to include a substantial salary increase, Hamilton remains the highest-paid driver within the team.
Hamilton's tenure with FerrariTeam·Ferrari began with a challenging 2025 season, where he did not secure any victories or podium finishes, concluding the Drivers' Championship in sixth position. However, the 2026 season has shown a notable improvement in his performance, with podiums achieved at the Chinese Grand PrixCompetition·Chinese Grand Prix (third place) and the Canadian Grand PrixCompetition·Canadian Grand Prix (second place). Hamilton has expressed his objective for 2026 is to secure a victory, attributing his improved form to finding his "sweet spot" within the team and praising his race engineer, Carlo Santi, whom he affectionately refers to as "my Italian Bono."
Heading into the Monaco Grand PrixCompetition·Monaco Grand Prix, Lewis HamiltonPlayer·Lewis Hamilton currently occupies sixth place in the 2026 Drivers' Championship standings with 156 points, while Charles LeclercPlayer·Charles Leclerc is positioned fifth with 242 points. Other reports place Hamilton fourth and Leclerc third. FerrariTeam·Ferrari has conveyed confidence in their car's performance on low-speed circuits such as Monaco, where engine power is less of a determining factor. The anticipated significant rule changes for the 2026 season are also seen as an opportunity for Hamilton to play a pivotal role in FerrariTeam·Ferrari's developmental trajectory, with some considering him an "architect of the future" for the team.
Lewis Hamilton (Scuderia Ferrari HP) at the start of the Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix. DeFodi Images/IMAGO
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