Lewis Hamilton’s campaign with Ferrari has fallen short of expectations midway through the 2024 Formula 1 season, raising questions about the British driver’s current form. The seven-time world champion joined Ferrari aiming to revive his career but has struggled to achieve significant results, prompting concerns tied to Lewis Hamilton Ferrari age concerns.
After several difficult seasons at Mercedes, Hamilton moved to Maranello with hopes that Ferrari’s legacy and resources would reignite his performance. However, at 40 years old, Hamilton remains without a podium finish this season, despite securing a sprint race victory in China. He openly described his performance in Hungary as “absolutely useless,” further highlighting his struggles.
Insights from Eddie Irvine on Hamilton’s Performance and the Ferrari Factor
Former Ferrari driver Eddie Irvine suggested that Hamilton’s age may be influencing his challenges at Ferrari. Being the second oldest driver on the grid after 44-year-old Fernando Alonso, Hamilton might be past his prime for achieving top results in Formula 1. Despite this, Irvine emphasized the formidable legacy Hamilton brings to the sport.
Problem with Lewis, he came a bit too old. But he won seven World Championships, so there’s always a price.
—Eddie Irvine, Former Ferrari Driver
Irvine also highlighted Ferrari’s unique logistical and operational difficulties compared to British teams, which might be complicating Hamilton’s ability to succeed. Ferrari is the only top team based in Maranello, Italy, while many competitors operate within a hub of teams in the UK, allowing for beneficial “cross pollination” of ideas and technology.
It’s very difficult, Ferrari, because they’re on their own in Italy. The British teams are all surrounded by other teams, and there’s cross pollination. It’s so much different, more difficult to be on your own down in Maranello. That’s it. It’s always more difficult for Ferrari.
—Eddie Irvine, Former Ferrari Driver
Prospects of Max Verstappen Joining Ferrari Alongside Hamilton
Max Verstappen, currently considered the best driver on the grid at 27 years old, remains at the peak of his form and has shown dominance similar to Hamilton’s earlier career phases. Irvine expressed enthusiasm about the possibility of Verstappen joining Ferrari to create a powerful duo with Hamilton, though he advised that Verstappen should avoid waiting too long to make such a move.
I would love Verstappen to come to Ferrari. I think the two of them together would be sensational. I hope he doesn’t leave it too late like Lewis did.
—Eddie Irvine, Former Ferrari Driver
While Verstappen’s motivation and age appear to align well with Ferrari’s ambitions, the Dutch driver has publicly committed to remaining at Red Bull Racing in Milton Keynes, where he enjoys strong support and resources. For Ferrari, adding Verstappen could represent a turning point, especially as Hamilton’s performance fluctuates amid age-related concerns.
Broader Implications for Ferrari’s Future and Formula 1 Landscape
Lewis Hamilton Ferrari age concerns shed light on the physical demands and evolving dynamics in Formula 1, where younger drivers increasingly showcase performance advantages. Ferrari’s unique position in Maranello means the team must innovate independently, making it more challenging to compete against British-based teams benefiting from broader collaboration.
The question remains whether Hamilton can overcome these factors and restore Ferrari’s historic competitiveness or if the team will look to younger talent like Verstappen to spearhead future success. As the season progresses, Ferrari’s decisions regarding driver lineup and car development will likely influence their trajectory in the championship.
