Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton turned 41 on Wednesday and marked the occasion with an emotional birthday post heading into a make-or-break season for his Ferrari title dream

Lewis Hamilton is desperate to turn his flagging Ferrari F1 career around(Image: PA)

Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton marked his 41st birthday with a reflective social media post, declaring “the time for change is now”. The racing star, who recently endured a challenging season with Ferrari without a single podium finish, shared how he has been spending his time since the season ended.

Swapping his race car for a snowboard, Hamilton has been hitting the slopes and enjoying some downtime. He was also seen on a motorbike, emphasising his need to switch off after what he described as “a very draining year”.

In his post, Hamilton expressed his gratitude for the break, saying: “I’m incredibly grateful for this break. Time to disconnect, recharge and find a bit of inner peace.

“Time with family and friends replenishing with rest and good laughs has been everything I needed after a very draining year. In a world that moves so fast where we’re constantly being pulled in so many directions, truly disconnecting and has been the most amazing feeling.”

“I’m conscious that we’re entering the Year of the Horse and leaving behind the Year of the Snake. The time for change is now. Starting new routines, leaving behind unwanted patterns and working on growth. Let go of things that don’t serve you. This can take time, there will be things you can’t get rid of immediately, but it starts with the first step.”

Hamilton concluded by reiterating his commitment to review his team ahead of a crucial year for his ambition to succeed with Ferrari. He said as much in December as he looked ahead to a vital winter in which it is clear that something needs to be done.

“My surroundings in terms of personal personnel, team personnel, how you utilise people, whether people need to move into different positions to work better, all these different things need to be looked at in my personal space so that we can optimise our teamwork,” he said.

Speculation immediately arose that he might request a new race engineer, following his apparently strained relationship with Riccardo Adami which attracted attention on numerous occasions last season. Whilst no decision has been announced publicly, reports from Italy suggest Hamilton and Adami will continue their partnership.

He proceeded to express gratitude to supporters for their backing during a challenging 2025 and revealed he would heed some of their guidance as he pursues success in red over the coming 12 months. Hamilton added: “Even though the world can seem like a mess, I hope that you’re staying focused on living life to the fullest.

“Be you and never forget who you are. I learnt that from many of you who told me this in 2025, and I’ll never forget again! Your support means the world to me and I’m here for you too. You are never alone. Let’s take it one day at a time, one step at a time.”