Lewis Hamilton recently received some harsh words from another Formula 1 world champion ahead of the 2026 season.

On the Drive to Wynn Podcast, Damon Hill, world champion in 1996, praised the efforts of the entire grid after overcoming such a demanding season and shared a few words for Hamilton.

"He has done really well, but this season has been really grueling. I think Lewis, in particular, never quite recovered in 2021. In the following seasons, with a less competitive car, he struggled to stay motivated, and his move to Ferrari was an attempt to find a second chance.

“However, I think he overloaded himself with promoting himself and getting to know the new team inside out. He definitely needs a break; of all of them, he's the one who needs to get away for a while and enjoy life”, Hill concluded.

At Ferrari, at least according to the Corriere della Sera, Hamilton would opt for a lower base salary, which could increase significantly through performance bonuses. The Italian media outlet reports that Hamilton will earn €40 million per season.

After leaving Mercedes, Hamilton's contract would be for two seasons, plus, incidentally, an option for a third year. Thus, with the bonuses, the seven-time world champion could easily earn €100 million in two years.