F1 News Today: Lewis Hamilton endures Imola setback as….readmore
Lewis Hamilton’s much-anticipated debut at Imola as a Ferrari driver didn’t go as hoped, with both performance struggles and regulatory issues clouding what was expected to be a celebratory weekend. This first home race for the British driver in Ferrari red has proven to be more of a trial than a triumph, as qualifying day turned into a disappointment for both Hamilton and the devoted tifosi.
Coming into the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, there was widespread excitement and high expectations from fans eager to see Hamilton shine on Ferrari’s home turf. However, the dream start was quickly soured. Hamilton found himself grappling with performance issues, particularly in qualifying where he couldn’t extract the pace needed from the SF-24. The car, known for its narrow operating window, once again proved difficult to manage—especially under Imola’s demanding circuit conditions.
Hamilton admitted to ongoing challenges with the setup, including inconsistent brake performance and tyre temperature management. These factors left him further down the grid than expected, dashing hopes of a front-row start in front of the passionate Italian crowd.
Compounding Ferrari’s woes, the FIA announced a ruling involving the team over a technical infringement. Though the details of the breach were not fully disclosed, the issue was linked to Charles Leclerc’s car, and it led to a formal punishment. The decision marks yet another incident in a growing list of regulatory infractions for Ferrari, some of which have affected both Hamilton and Leclerc earlier in the season—most notably during the Chinese Grand Prix, where both drivers were disqualified due to technical non-compliance.
The FIA’s latest verdict has stirred debate within the Formula 1 community. Some fans believe the penalty reflects inconsistencies in enforcement, while others argue it’s a necessary step to uphold technical standards. Regardless, it has only added pressure to a Ferrari team still searching for consistency and reliability in 2025.
Despite the turbulent weekend, Hamilton remains focused on adapting to his new environment. He’s acknowledged the steep learning curve involved in transitioning to Ferrari after years at Mercedes and remains committed to finding pace in the car. Team principal Fred Vasseur emphasized the need for calm and continued development, recognizing that both the car and team must evolve together.
As the season continues, Hamilton’s experience will be pivotal in helping Ferrari rebound. With continued adjustments and technical improvements, both he and the team are still aiming to deliver on the high expectations that accompanied his move to Maranello. But at Imola, the fairytale beginning will have to wait.
