Lewis Hamilton lost ‘enthusiasm’ under security in worrying Ferrari assessment
Lewis Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari has been met with a series of challenges, leading to concerns about his current form and enthusiasm for the sport. The seven-time World Champion’s recent performances have sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike.
A Rocky Start with the Prancing Horse
Hamilton’s debut with Ferrari at the Australian Grand Prix was less than stellar. Qualifying in eighth position, he struggled to find pace during the race, ultimately finishing in 10th place. A strategic misstep by the team, opting not to pit for intermediate tyres during a rain-affected phase, further hampered his performance. This decision led to a frustrated radio exchange between Hamilton and his new race engineer, Riccardo Adami, highlighting early communication issues within the team.
The Italian media, known for their passionate coverage of Ferrari, have been quick to critique the team’s performance. Local outlets described the race as a “reality check,” emphasizing the need for immediate improvements in strategy and car performance.
Physical Fitness and Adaptation Concerns
At 40, Hamilton remains one of the most experienced drivers on the grid. However, recent comments from former drivers and analysts have raised questions about his physical fitness and adaptability to new machinery. Despite these concerns, Ferrari’s vice chairman, Piero Ferrari, has dismissed any doubts regarding Hamilton’s fitness, stating that the British driver is in “good shape both physically and mentally.”
Hamilton himself has acknowledged the challenges of adapting to Ferrari’s braking system and steering wheel configurations. During the Australian Grand Prix, he admitted to not knowing the location of the wet switch on his steering wheel, which contributed to his struggles in wet conditions.
Team Dynamics and Communication
The shift from Mercedes to Ferrari has also brought about changes in team dynamics. Hamilton’s long-standing partnership with race engineer Peter ‘Bono’ Bonnington at Mercedes was instrumental in his past successes. The new collaboration with Adami at Ferrari is still in its infancy, and the recent heated exchanges suggest that building a strong rapport will be crucial for future success.
Public Perception and Media Scrutiny
The Italian press has been vocal about Hamilton’s start with Ferrari. While some acknowledge the challenges of transitioning to a new team, others have been less forgiving, emphasizing the high expectations that come with driving for the Scuderia. Hamilton’s own frustrations have occasionally spilled over in media interactions, notably when he snapped back at a reporter’s question regarding Ferrari’s performance, indicating the pressure he feels in this new chapter of his career.
Looking Ahead
Despite the rocky start, there is optimism within the Ferrari camp. Both Hamilton and teammate Charles Leclerc have expressed confidence in the car’s potential. They acknowledge the need for improved communication and strategy execution to harness that potential fully. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Hamilton to see if he can rekindle his previous form and lead Ferrari back to the pinnacle of Formula 1.
