Lewis Hamilton and Angela Cullen Part Ways as Ferrari Journey Gets Off to a Rocky Start
Lewis Hamilton’s much-anticipated move to Ferrari for the 2025 Formula 1 season has taken an unexpected turn, adding emotional weight to an already monumental shift in his career. In a development that has caught many off guard, Hamilton has reportedly ended his longstanding professional relationship with Angela Cullen, his trusted physiotherapist and close companion.
This comes just months after Hamilton made a headline-grabbing exit from Mercedes, where he achieved the bulk of his record-breaking success. His transition to Ferrari was celebrated by fans and pundits alike as a dream partnership — the most iconic driver of the modern era joining the most legendary team in motorsport history. Yet, what was expected to be a smooth and inspiring fresh start has quickly become a more complicated and emotional journey.
Angela Cullen has been a constant presence in Hamilton’s life since 2016. More than just a member of his training staff, Cullen has been regarded as a pillar of support, providing both physical and emotional stability. Her role extended far beyond traditional physiotherapy — she managed Hamilton’s mental well-being, helped him maintain peak fitness, and offered the kind of loyalty and trust rarely seen in the fast-paced world of F1. Their bond was so strong that she was often referred to as Hamilton’s “rock” or “guardian angel.”
The news of their professional split has sparked widespread speculation, especially given the timing. Sources close to Ferrari indicate that Hamilton’s transition to the Italian outfit has not been as smooth as hoped. Ferrari is known for its demanding internal culture, intense pressure from fans (the Tifosi), and relentless media scrutiny in Italy. Compared to Mercedes’ more familiar and supportive environment, Ferrari’s atmosphere is proving to be a significant adjustment for Hamilton — and, by extension, for Cullen.
Reportedly, Cullen found it challenging to integrate into Ferrari’s high-stakes ecosystem. The team’s structure, expectations, and operational style differ drastically from Mercedes, and Cullen reportedly felt she could no longer provide Hamilton with the same level of support under these new conditions.
“Angela has always prioritized Lewis’ well-being,” an insider shared. “When she realized that the environment wasn’t conducive to doing her job effectively, she made the difficult decision to step away — for both of their sakes.”
This decision adds another layer of pressure to Hamilton’s already demanding role at Ferrari. The team is desperate to return to championship-winning form — a feat they haven’t achieved since 2007 — and Hamilton has been brought in as the catalyst for that resurgence. But adapting to Ferrari’s unique car characteristics, navigating a different management approach, and coping with intense media attention is proving to be a major challenge.
Neither Hamilton nor Cullen has officially confirmed the end of their partnership, but the speculation has been further fueled by a cryptic social media post from Hamilton. He wrote, “Sometimes, change brings growth. Other times, it shows you what you must let go.” Fans quickly interpreted the message as a subtle confirmation of Cullen’s departure.
The dissolution of this partnership marks more than just a staffing change. Cullen has been integral to many of Hamilton’s career-defining moments — from championship celebrations to personal trials. Her absence now leaves a notable void in Hamilton’s corner at a time when he arguably needs support the most.
As Hamilton pushes forward with Ferrari, serious questions remain. Can he replicate the emotional and physical support system Cullen provided? Will he be able to thrive in an organization known for its intensity and impatience?
While many still believe Hamilton’s move to Ferrari could end in championship glory and legacy-defining success, the road ahead appears far more treacherous than initially imagined. With the spotlight brighter than ever, the coming months will reveal whether Hamilton can weather this emotional and professional upheaval and lead Ferrari back to the summit of Formula 1.
