Lewis Hamilton Faces Challenges with…read more
As Lewis Hamilton prepares for his highly anticipated switch to Ferrari in the 2025 Formula 1 season, experts have warned that the transition may not be as smooth as some expect. Former F1 strategist Bernie Collins has highlighted the significant challenges Hamilton will face as he adapts to a completely new car, engine, and team dynamics.
Hamilton’s shocking decision to leave Mercedes after 12 years sent ripples through the motorsport world. His move to Ferrari was one of the biggest driver transfers in F1 history, and the excitement surrounding his first steps with the Italian team has been immense. His visit to Maranello, Ferrari’s headquarters, and the subsequent on-track tests have been closely followed by fans and analysts alike.
However, Collins, speaking on The Red Flags podcast, emphasized that the challenges of Hamilton’s adaptation should not be underestimated. One of the biggest hurdles will be learning how to operate Ferrari’s power unit, which is entirely different from the Mercedes engine he has used throughout his career.
“I think it’s going to be a really interesting one to watch,” Collins said. “I think the challenge of Lewis stepping into a Ferrari shouldn’t be underestimated.”
She explained that Hamilton will have to familiarize himself with the intricacies of Ferrari’s engine systems, including how the different modes work, how energy is harvested, and how deployment functions during races. These elements, though technical, are crucial for extracting the best performance from the car.
“He’s never driven a Ferrari engine, so real simple things like how the engine works, how the modes work, how the harvesting works, how the deployment works—they’re all different,” Collins continued.
Formula 1 drivers rely heavily on their instinct and experience to operate their cars effectively. Over the years, Hamilton has developed a deep understanding of Mercedes’ systems, allowing him to make split-second decisions during races. Now, he must essentially rewire his muscle memory and get accustomed to Ferrari’s unique controls and operational procedures.
“We hear different terminology on the radio,” Collins noted. “Where he instinctively pushes the buttons is going to be different. So I think there’s going to be big differences in the car that’s going to be a challenge for Lewis.”
In F1, even minor delays in adjusting engine settings or misinterpreting commands can have significant consequences. Ferrari’s engineers will play a crucial role in guiding Hamilton through this adaptation period, ensuring he feels comfortable with the car’s systems before the season begins.
Another factor to consider is how Hamilton will gel with Ferrari’s existing setup, particularly with teammate Charles Leclerc, who has spent years developing a strong relationship with the team. While Hamilton’s experience and skill are undeniable, the challenge will be integrating smoothly into Ferrari’s culture and maximizing his performance in a car that was not originally designed around his preferences.
Despite these hurdles, Hamilton’s record of adaptability and excellence suggests that he will eventually overcome the learning curve. Over his career, he has demonstrated the ability to adjust to changing regulations, car designs, and competition, making him one of the most successful drivers in F1 history.
His first race with Ferrari in 2025 will be a momentous occasion, and fans will be eager to see how quickly he can settle into his new surroundings. While early struggles are expected, the long-term potential of Hamilton in a Ferrari remains an exciting prospect.
With pre-season testing already underway, Hamilton has been putting in the work to familiarize himself with his new machine. His ability to adapt and perform under pressure will be tested like never before, but if history is any indication, he is more than capable of rising to the challenge.
