Former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher openly criticized Lewis Hamilton for his dramatic complaints about his difficulties adapting to Ferrari’s car in the current season. Schumacher, a German analyst, pointed out that the Ferrari car is more suited to Charles Leclerc’s driving style, and suggested that Hamilton may be too old to adjust effectively to it. This comes amid Hamilton’s ongoing challenges at the team, where he has yet to find consistent performance.
At the Hungarian Grand Prix, Hamilton’s harsh self-assessment attracted attention after he failed to move beyond Q2 in qualifying, while Leclerc secured pole position. This marked the second consecutive race where Hamilton did not reach Q3, following a Q1 exit at the Belgian GP. After qualifying in Hungary, Hamilton described himself as “useless” and even hinted that Ferrari might consider replacing him.
His morale did not improve after the race, in which he finished 12th, matching his starting position and marking his first finish outside the points since joining Ferrari. After the race, the 40-year-old British driver released a veiled comment regarding internal issues within Ferrari, stating,
“There’s a lot going on in the background that’s not great.”
Speaking to the German publication BILD, Ralf Schumacher expressed dissatisfaction with Hamilton’s approach to the situation. He criticized the seven-time world champion’s public attitude and internal disagreements.
“I said before the season that this could go wrong. Currently, I see a lot of drama from him. He’s been slamming the team, criticizing internally, arguing with the car—that doesn’t help anyone,” the Sky Sports F1 analyst said. [Translated by Google]
Schumacher emphasized that Ferrari’s current car design favors Leclerc’s driving style, and questioned Hamilton’s ability to adapt, suggesting age could be a factor. He also weighed in on speculation about Hamilton leaving Ferrari mid-season.
“The car suits Leclerc, not him. Maybe he’s too old to adapt. Or he just can’t cope. I think the decision for Leclerc was made long ago. But I don’t think he’ll quit during the season.”
While skeptical of Hamilton’s mid-season departure, Schumacher did not rule out an early end to the Briton’s multi-year contract with Ferrari, indicating ongoing uncertainty about Hamilton’s future at the team.
Bernie Ecclestone Questions Ferrari’s Decision to Sign Hamilton
Bernie Ecclestone, former Formula 1 chief executive, also voiced doubts about Ferrari’s signing of Lewis Hamilton. At 94 years old, Ecclestone acknowledged Hamilton’s talent but described him as somewhat political, aligning with Ferrari’s traditional characteristics. Ecclestone maintained that Hamilton has the potential to revive his form.
In an interview with F1destinations, Ecclestone stated,
“I am not sure that taking Lewis was the right decision. Lewis is obviously talented, but a little bit political, which is typical for Ferrari and typical for him. But he could come to life again, which would be good for him and good for Ferrari.”
Despite his struggles in the current season, Hamilton’s best results came during the Chinese Grand Prix weekend, where he secured pole for the Sprint and went on to win the Sprint race. Still, a podium finish eludes him as he tries to overcome the ongoing Lewis Hamilton Ferrari adaptation struggles that have frustrated fans and analysts alike.
Ongoing Challenges and What Lies Ahead
Lewis Hamilton’s difficulties with adapting to Ferrari’s car and team dynamics have marked a challenging chapter in his career. The public criticism from Ralf Schumacher and skepticism from figures like Bernie Ecclestone highlight the pressure facing both Hamilton and Ferrari. With the car favoring Charles Leclerc and Hamilton struggling to find his rhythm, Ferrari’s strategic choices and Hamilton’s response will be crucial as the season unfolds.
The British driver’s readiness to cope with Ferrari’s demands and his capacity to adjust despite age-related factors remain important questions. Hamilton’s next performances and any potential changes within Ferrari’s setup or driver lineup will be closely watched by fans and experts eager to see if the seven-time champion can reclaim his form.
