Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has responded to Lewis Hamilton’s comments suggesting Ferrari should consider replacing him after his difficult qualifying performance in Hungary. Hamilton, who was eliminated in Q2 and finished 12th, criticized himself harshly following the pole position secured by Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc. Wolff described Hamilton’s remarks as misplaced and urged calm, reminding everyone of Hamilton’s status as one of the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history.
Hamilton’s self-criticism came at a tense moment for the 40-year-old driver, whose first half of the season with Ferrari has been erratic. After his disappointing result in Budapest, Hamilton said,
“Oh it’s me every time. Absolutely useless. The team has no problem, you’ve seen the car is on pole, so we probably need to change driver.”
Wolff expressed that it was inappropriate for Hamilton to voice such doubts about himself or request a replacement, especially when his performance did not reflect his overall contributions and talent. He explained,
“I thought that was wrong to say that, and I told him that the same evening and again the next day. Because he’s still the GOAT [greatest of all time]. What I said is, did you ever hear Michael Jordan say about himself that he’s useless and that you change the player? No.”
Wolff acknowledged Hamilton’s passionate nature, saying he admires how openly Hamilton expresses his emotions, which is part of what makes Hamilton a superstar in the sport. However, he urged perspective and patience, emphasizing that one tough weekend doesn’t define a legendary career.
“But that one, I felt was just such a bad moment for him that he said that, because it’s simply not true. If he retires, he’s still the GOAT. He’s going to retire and nobody is going to ever know that he was at Ferrari at the end. Who thinks about the Schumacher and Mercedes time? That isn’t relevant for Schumacher’s career, so…”
Wolff concluded, reinforcing that Hamilton’s legacy remains secure despite current struggles.
Assessing Hamilton’s Prospects Despite Early Challenges
Despite a challenging start to his tenure with Ferrari, Toto Wolff remains confident that Lewis Hamilton still has the capability to win additional world championships. He noted Hamilton’s extensive experience and consistent point-scoring ability as significant advantages should Ferrari provide a competitive car.
“If Ferrari was having the best car, I think, Lewis, with his experience of scoring all year long can win a world championship,”
Wolff said, showing belief in Hamilton’s ongoing competitiveness.
When asked about Hamilton’s apparent unhappiness at Ferrari, Wolff pointed out that such emotional fluctuations are not unique to this season or team. He recalled that Hamilton experienced similar frustrations during his time with Mercedes.
“There were moments of unhappiness with us [too], many times,”
Wolff stated. He explained that Hamilton’s move to Ferrari was motivated by a mutual desire for a fresh environment, as both the driver and Mercedes sought new opportunities.
“All the reasons he had to go to Ferrari are still valid today. He needed a change of environment, and we needed a change of environment. We weren’t as competitive as we would have wished. Ferrari looked better. Every racing driver wants to race with Ferrari. He likes the colour red anyway. The deal that was on the table was very good.”
The Importance of Experience and Perseverance in F1 Careers
Toto Wolff’s defense highlights the significance of resilience and perspective in Formula 1. Hamilton’s candid self-assessment, while reflecting his high standards, has met firm pushback from his former team chief, who sees it as a momentary lapse rather than a true measure of his value.
Hamilton’s journey with Ferrari remains a work in progress, with expectations tempered by the ups and downs typical of racing careers. Wolff’s remarks suggest that, despite the current challenges, Hamilton’s track record and championship pedigree continue to make him a formidable competitor, capable of bouncing back and delivering results when Ferrari’s machinery matches his skill.
The coming races will be crucial in defining Hamilton’s impact at Ferrari and determining whether he can add to his legacy with further triumphs. Wolff’s perspective serves as a reminder that even the greatest athletes face hardships but maintain their stature through experience and determination.
