Lewis Hamilton said he has a very big Problem that will impact his Ferrari…read more
Lewis Hamilton’s recent transition to Ferrari has been met with a mix of optimism and concern as he embarks on the 2025 Formula One season. At 40, the seven-time world champion faces the dual challenges of adapting to a new team environment and addressing performance issues that surfaced during his final year with Mercedes.
In the 2024 season, Hamilton experienced a notable decline in qualifying performance, being out-qualified by his teammate George Russell in 19 out of 24 races. This downturn has led to questions about whether he has surpassed his peak performance years. Sky Sports commentator Martin Brundle acknowledged these concerns but maintained that Hamilton remains capable of clinching a record-breaking eighth world title with Ferrari.
Ferrari has dismissed apprehensions regarding Hamilton’s age and recent form. Piero Ferrari, son of the legendary Enzo Ferrari, emphasized Hamilton’s physical and mental fitness, stating, “He is healthy, he is in good shape both physically and mentally, I don’t think age is a problem at all.”
However, Hamilton’s initial testing sessions with Ferrari have not been without incident. During a session at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, he was involved in a crash that caused significant damage to the car’s suspension and aerodynamic components. Fortunately, Hamilton emerged unscathed. Interestingly, similar pre-season testing mishaps occurred during his debut seasons with McLaren and Mercedes, both of which preceded championship victories, suggesting that such setbacks might not hinder his prospects.
The upcoming season presents a formidable challenge for Hamilton, not only in terms of personal performance but also in navigating the dynamics within Ferrari. He will be partnering with Charles Leclerc, who has been with the team since 2019 and is known for his exceptional qualifying speed. Managing the intra-team rivalry while fostering a collaborative environment will be crucial for Ferrari’s success.
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali highlighted the importance of Hamilton immersing himself in Ferrari’s unique culture. He noted, “At Ferrari, he will be in a different environment [than what he is used to].” Reports indicate that Hamilton has been taking Italian lessons to better integrate with the team and its fanbase, underscoring his commitment to this new chapter in his career.
As the 2025 season approaches, the competition is expected to be intense. McLaren’s CEO, Zak Brown, anticipates a four-way battle for the championship, with McLaren, Red Bull, and Ferrari all in contention. This sets the stage for a thrilling season where Hamilton’s experience and adaptability will be put to the test.
In summary, while Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is laden with high expectations, it is also fraught with challenges. Addressing the performance issues from his previous season, acclimating to Ferrari’s distinct culture, and managing the competitive dynamics with his teammate will be pivotal factors in determining his quest for an unprecedented eighth world championship.
