Hamilton remains valued at 70 million euros by Ferrari despite the decline.
"Lewis clearly possesses talent, but he has a somewhat political side."
Lewis Hamilton's initial half-season with Ferrari has been disappointing in terms of sporting results, yet it has proven to be a commercial triumph for the team. The 40-year-old seven-time world champion has noticeably underperformed in 2025, managing only a victory in a sprint race in China. His recent comment labeling his performance as "useless" in Hungary has reignited discussions about his potential retirement or contract stipulations.
Former F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone stated to F1 Destinations: "I’m uncertain if bringing Lewis onboard was the best choice. While Lewis undoubtedly has talent, he tends to be somewhat political, which aligns with Ferrari's typical behavior and his own. However, he could still find his form again, which would benefit both him and Ferrari."
However, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Hamilton has been considered "a steal" from a financial perspective. In the first half of 2025, Ferrari's net profit increased by 9 percent to 837 million euros, with F1 revenues rising from 313 million to 396 million. This growth was driven by new partnerships, a 30-40 million euro boost in Liberty Media bonuses due to the team’s improved performance in 2024, and an estimated 50 million euro annual increase in sponsorship linked directly to Hamilton's presence.
Giovanni Palazzi, president of sponsorship valuation firm StageUp, noted: "The surge in merchandise sales and sponsorship income can be attributed to Hamilton’s allure, as he is not just a driver but a living sporting icon. His image extends beyond Formula 1 and resonates with a global audience, merging sports, fashion, and pop culture. This worldwide appeal, combined with the legacy of the Prancing Horse, has created an enticing proposition for fans and brands alike."
La Gazzetta concludes that Hamilton’s overall commercial impact this year is valued at approximately 70 million euros, significantly exceeding his reported salary of 40 million euros.
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Hamilton remains valued at 70 million euros by Ferrari despite the decline.
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