The possibility of Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari parting ways as early as the end of the 2025 season, despite the Briton having a valid contract, has opened the door to speculation about Carlos Sainz potentially returning to Maranello. According to former F1 driver, FIA steward, and Sky F1 expert commentator Johnny Herbert, Ferrari could move towards a “mutual separation” with the seven-time world champion if the results don’t go in the desired direction.
Hamilton Without a Podium, Ferrari Below Expectations
Last year, Hamilton left Mercedes to fulfill his dream — joining Ferrari. However, after 14 races without a podium finish, the British driver is still chasing his first major success in the red car. His teammate Charles Leclerc managed to take pole position in Hungary, while Hamilton finished a disappointing 12th in qualifying.
Following that underwhelming performance, Hamilton described himself multiple times as “useless” and even suggested that Ferrari should consider replacing him. In a follow-up interview, he added that “there’s a lot going on behind the scenes that isn’t good,” hinting that something is happening.
Contract Length Still Unclear
Ferrari and Hamilton never specified the exact length of the deal when it was announced, only calling it a “multi-year” agreement. According to reports from Italy, the contract runs at least through the end of 2026, with Hamilton reportedly having an option to unilaterally extend it through 2027, regardless of performance.
Herbert: Time for a Mutual Split?
Johnny Herbert believes that Hamilton’s comments suggest that Ferrari may already be considering alternatives.
“When Hamilton said [that something is going on behind the scenes], I’m not exactly sure what he meant,” said Herbert.
“One way to read it is that discussions about a potential driver change might already be taking place.”
He added that Ferrari and Hamilton might soon come to a mutual realization:
“If it’s not working, maybe it’s time — the moment has come [for a split].”
However, Herbert ruled out Max Verstappen as a replacement:
“I don’t think Verstappen would be the one. It could be one of the younger drivers, I suppose.”
The Return of Carlos Sainz?
Herbert specifically pointed to Carlos Sainz as a potential candidate to return to Ferrari. When recently asked about a possible comeback to Maranello, the Spaniard replied:
“Yes, maybe!”
Sainz was forced to make room for Hamilton last year, but prior to that, he was a consistent and solid figure for Ferrari — often keeping up with Leclerc, something Herbert emphasized:
“Carlos did an absolutely fantastic job and really kept Charles under control.
He’s still young, still performing well, even if he’s struggling with Williams. But we know how good he was during his time at Ferrari.”
Sainz has signed a multi-year deal with Williams until the end of 2026, but rumors have been circulating for months about an exit clause that would allow him to leave if a top team comes knocking.
With Hamilton enduring one of the toughest periods of his career, and Ferrari still searching for a way back to winning form, speculation about changes is growing louder. If Herbert’s predictions prove accurate, 2026 could bring another major twist — with Sainz returning to the red car, and a potential mutual separation between Hamilton and Ferrari on the horizon.
