Lewis Hamilton Has Lost Qualifying ‘Raw Spe…read more
Lewis Hamilton’s recent transition from Mercedes to Ferrari has sparked discussions about his current performance capabilities, particularly concerning his qualifying speed. Nicolas Kiesa, a former Formula 1 driver who raced for Minardi in 2003, shared his insights on this significant move.
Kiesa highlighted the challenges associated with switching from an English to an Italian team, emphasizing the cultural and linguistic adjustments required. He noted that the language barrier could initially slow down communication and reaction times, as specific phrases and technical jargon differ between languages.
Reports indicate that Hamilton, now 40, may start the 2025 season with a pace deficit compared to his established teammate, Charles Leclerc. Kiesa acknowledged that while Hamilton might not possess the same raw qualifying speed he had a decade ago, his strength lies in maintaining a consistent and fast pace over race distances. This endurance and strategic acumen are crucial, as world championships are often decided by race-day performance rather than qualifying sessions.
Fernando Alonso, another top driver who previously transitioned to Ferrari, expressed skepticism about the impact Hamilton could have at Maranello. Alonso suggested that the influence of a talented designer, such as Adrian Newey, often outweighs that of a driver. This perspective underscores the importance of technical innovation and car development in achieving success in Formula 1.
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has been accompanied by personal adjustments as well. Embracing Italian culture, he humorously expressed concerns about fitting into his new Ferrari car due to his love for Italian cuisine, particularly pizza. Despite indulging in local dishes, Hamilton remains committed to maintaining his fitness and has intensified his training regimen, including rigorous 4 a.m. workouts, to prepare for the upcoming season.
The 2025 season presents a fresh challenge for Hamilton as he aims to secure a record-breaking eighth world championship. His preparation includes test drives at Ferrari’s Fiorano track and upcoming sessions in Bahrain. These tests are crucial for Hamilton to acclimate to the new car and team dynamics, especially given the limited testing opportunities before the season opener in Melbourne on March 16.
Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari also signifies a broader shift in the Formula 1 landscape. His departure from Mercedes, a team he had been associated with since the age of 13, marks the end of a highly successful partnership. This move has prompted discussions about the evolving dynamics among top teams and drivers, with fans and analysts keenly observing how these changes will influence the competitive balance in the upcoming season.
while questions about Hamilton’s qualifying speed have emerged, his extensive experience, strategic prowess, and dedication to fitness suggest he remains a formidable contender. As he embarks on this new chapter with Ferrari, the 2025 season promises to be a pivotal period in his illustrious career.
