Lewis Hamilton’s tenure at Ferrari has been marked by disappointment, with the seven-time world champion struggling to adapt to the team’s SF-25 car. Despite high expectations, Hamilton has failed to transform Ferrari into a championship-contending outfit, currently sitting seventh in the drivers’ championship, two positions behind teammate Charles Leclerc.
Ferrari’s Performance
Ferrari’s regression is evident in their fourth-place constructors’ championship position, a significant drop from last season where they finished just 11 points shy of the title. Both Hamilton and Leclerc have struggled with the car’s lack of pace, but Hamilton’s performances have been particularly concerning. He has been outqualified by Leclerc in five out of six main race qualifying sessions and has managed only one grand prix top-five finish.
Communication Issues
Former F1 driver Christian Danner attributes Hamilton’s struggles to communication problems within the team. Danner suggests Hamilton thought he’d easily assert dominance over Leclerc and bring success to Ferrari, but reality has been far from smooth. Tensions between Hamilton and Ferrari were palpable during the Miami Grand Prix, where Hamilton expressed frustration over delayed team orders. His sarcastic team radio messages, including telling his engineer to “have a tea break” while waiting for instructions, have raised concerns about his relationship with the team.
Contract Concerns and Speculation
Ralf Schumacher recently speculated that Hamilton might cut his time at Ferrari short, before the end of his contract. This speculation adds to the narrative of a frustrated Hamilton, who had hoped to challenge for an eighth world championship title. Hamilton’s contract with Ferrari is reportedly multi-year, with some suggesting it could be a three-year deal, keeping him at the team until at least 2027.
Challenges Ahead
Hamilton faces significant challenges in turning his fortunes around at Ferrari. He needs to rediscover his qualifying form and adapt to the team’s working practices. Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur has emphasized the importance of Hamilton getting plenty of laps in the team’s simulator to get accustomed to the new car. The team’s performance will also depend on whether Ferrari can continue their momentum from last season and provide Hamilton with a car capable of challenging for wins.
Hamilton’s Perspective
Hamilton has spoken about the influence of his relationship with Vasseur in his decision to join Ferrari. The pair previously worked together in junior formulae, and Hamilton credits Vasseur with being a key factor in the team’s progress. Hamilton has also expressed pride in Mercedes’ diversity initiatives and hopes to see similar progress at Ferrari.
What’s Next for Hamilton and Ferrari?
As the season progresses, Hamilton and Ferrari will look to turn their fortunes around. With upcoming races at Imola and Monaco, the team will be under pressure to deliver results. Hamilton’s ability to adapt to the team and overcome his challenges will be crucial in determining Ferrari’s success this season.
Je reste perplexe devant ses ajustements non stop de ces bolides en plein championnat du monde. C’ Navrant navrant pour l’image emblématique de Ferrari bavant pour 2 pilotes d’except Hamilton et Leclerc qui en subissent les conséquences. Voilà plusieurs fois que je pose la même question restée sans réponse : pourquoi ces bolides ne sont ils pas mis au point avant ce championnat et être Audi vraiment ok au départ du championnat ? Que l’on m’explique enfin car franchement cela reste une véritable énigme et que l’ ne me dise pas que c’ une question d’argent ! Patricia Lesieur