Carlos Sainz has stated that Lewis Hamilton made a significant error by joining Ferrari at the start of this racing season. Hamilton switched from Mercedes to Ferrari after ending his 11-year partnership with the Silver Arrows, but his move has not yet brought the success expected of the seven-time world champion. This season has proved challenging for Hamilton as he has yet to secure a podium finish and often lags behind his Ferrari teammate, Charles Leclerc.
Sainz Expresses No Resentment Toward Hamilton’s Ferrari Choice
Despite Hamilton taking his seat at Ferrari, Sainz holds no ill will toward the 40-year-old driver, whose sole victory this year has come in the sprint race at the Chinese Grand Prix. Speaking to DAZN through SoyMotor, Sainz said,
“If I had been him, I would have gone to Ferrari even earlier. It’s such a special place. If I had been a seven-time world champion, I would have set my sights on Ferrari to compete in the final years of my career.”
Carlos Sainz, F1 Driver
Hamilton showed a strong performance at the recent Italian Grand Prix in Monza, rising from 10th on the grid to finish sixth despite a five-place grid penalty.
Challenges for Both Drivers Amid Team Changes
Sainz himself has faced difficulties after moving to Williams this season, failing to score points since the Canadian Grand Prix in June except for a sixth-place finish at the Belgian Grand Prix sprint and a few sprint race points. His struggle contrasts with his four years at Ferrari where he often competed alongside Leclerc. The change has marked a clear shift in the competitive landscape within the driver lineup across the teams.
Broader Context of F1 Season Developments
Meanwhile, the current Formula 1 season has seen multiple notable developments, including driver replacements and ongoing discussions about sprint race formats for 2026. Leadership figures such as Toto Wolff have been vocal on team matters, as controversy involving George Russell’s contract surfaced this year. Additionally, driver aspects like individual heights have attracted attention within the F1 community. These ongoing events contribute to the dynamic and evolving nature of the championship this season.
The decisions made by top drivers like Hamilton and Sainz are shaping the trajectories of their careers and the performance of their teams. Hamilton’s move to Ferrari was highly anticipated given the team’s storied history and potential, but the early results suggest a longer adjustment period. For Sainz, adapting to Williams has brought new challenges after his tenure with Ferrari. How both drivers progress throughout the rest of the season will be closely monitored by F1 followers and experts alike.
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