Lewis Hamilton’s ’embarrassing’ Ferrari debut is savaged by fo…read more
Lewis Hamilton’s much-anticipated debut with Scuderia Ferrari at the 2025 Australian Grand Prix culminated in a modest 10th-place finish, a result that has drawn sharp criticism from former Formula 1 team manager Peter Windsor. Windsor expressed his disappointment over Hamilton’s performance, highlighting concerns about the veteran driver’s pace and his assertive communication over the team radio during the race.
A Rocky Start with the Prancing Horse
After a remarkable 12-year tenure with Mercedes, during which he clinched six of his seven world championships, Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari was one of the most talked-about moves in recent F1 history. The Australian Grand Prix marked his first official race in the iconic red livery, and expectations were sky-high. However, the weekend unfolded with challenges that underscored the complexities of adapting to a new team environment.
Hamilton’s performance during the practice sessions was mixed. He finished 12th and 5th in Friday’s free practice sessions, with teammate Charles Leclerc significantly outperforming him. Pundit Martin Brundle raised concerns when Hamilton was seen leaving the garage with his helmet on, a gesture often associated with driver frustration. Despite these early signs, Hamilton expressed excitement about driving for Ferrari, acknowledging the car felt different and required an adjustment to his driving style.
Qualifying and Race Day Challenges
Qualifying saw Hamilton securing the 8th spot on the grid, a position that hinted at potential but also highlighted the need for further acclimatization to his new machinery. As the race commenced under wet conditions, Hamilton briefly found himself leading the pack, a position that reignited hopes among the Tifosi. However, this lead was short-lived, primarily resulting from strategic pit stops by rivals rather than outright pace.
Throughout the race, Hamilton grappled with the car’s balance and handling, particularly under the challenging wet conditions. His unfamiliarity with Ferrari’s rain settings became evident, leading to strategic missteps that hampered his progress. Frustrations boiled over during radio communications, with Hamilton repeatedly telling his race engineer, Riccardo Adami, to “leave it to me,” indicating a preference to rely on his experience over team guidance.
Windsor’s Scathing Critique
Peter Windsor did not mince words in his assessment of Hamilton’s inaugural outing with Ferrari. He described the debut as “embarrassing,” pointing to the lack of pace and the evident communication breakdowns between Hamilton and the pit wall. Windsor was particularly critical of Hamilton’s “dogmatic” approach over the radio, suggesting that such rigidity can be detrimental, especially when adapting to a new team’s operational dynamics.
Windsor’s critique also touched upon the broader implications of Hamilton’s performance. He expressed concerns that if Hamilton’s integration into Ferrari doesn’t improve swiftly, it could lead to internal tensions and impact the team’s overall performance in the championship. The former Williams manager emphasized the importance of adaptability and open communication, especially when transitioning to a team with a distinct culture and operational style like Ferrari.
Team Dynamics and Future Outlook
Within the Ferrari camp, the dynamics between Hamilton and Leclerc were under the microscope. Leclerc, who finished two positions ahead of Hamilton, showcased a deeper understanding of the car and race conditions. This internal competition is expected to intensify as the season progresses, with both drivers aiming to assert their dominance within the team.
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur, however, remained optimistic. He acknowledged the challenges inherent in such a high-profile transition but expressed confidence in Hamilton’s ability to adapt and thrive. Vasseur emphasized that the team’s focus is on building a cohesive unit that leverages the strengths of both its star drivers.
Hamilton’s Perspective
Despite the less-than-stellar debut, Hamilton maintained a positive outlook. He admitted the need for a transition period to fully acclimate to Ferrari’s car and systems. Hamilton also highlighted his motivation to bring success to the iconic team, reiterating that he has nothing to prove and feels no pressure ahead of his Ferrari debut.
Looking Ahead
The Australian Grand Prix served as a stark reminder of the challenges that even seasoned champions like Hamilton can face when navigating new terrains. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on how quickly he can adapt to Ferrari’s intricacies and whether the team can provide a car capable of competing at the front. The upcoming races will be crucial in determining whether this partnership can yield the success that both Ferrari and Hamilton fervently desire.
In conclusion, while the debut may not have met the lofty expectations set by fans and pundits alike, it also highlighted the unpredictable nature of motorsport. Hamilton’s journey with Ferrari is just beginning, and the true measure of its success will be revealed in the races to come.
