Italian media have sharply criticized Lewis Hamilton following his worst Formula 1 weekend since joining Ferrari this season. At the Hungaroring on the final race before the summer shutdown, Hamilton qualified 12th after an early exit in Q2 and failed to improve on that position during the Grand Prix, marking his poorest finish of the campaign. This disappointing performance has sparked calls for a major Lewis Hamilton Ferrari shake up ahead of the rest of the season.
Hamilton’s challenges were compounded by his teammate Charles Leclerc securing pole position, outpacing Ferrari’s rivals including the championship-contending McLarens. Faced with this contrast in results, Hamilton appeared visibly frustrated, even suggesting that the team consider replacing him before Sunday’s race.
La Gazzetta dello Sport Evaluates Ferrari Drivers’ Performance
Following the difficult weekend for Ferrari, Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport released report cards assessing the performances of the Scuderia’s drivers. Hamilton, aged 40, was given a low score of 5 out of 10 for a race weekend where he started and finished in twelfth place. The publication emphasized his uncharacteristic dejection and the need for Hamilton to rediscover his best form, stating,
“He’d never looked so down and demoralised. Considering the SF-25’s troubles, he needs to shake things up. Ferrari needs the real Lewis.” —La Gazzetta dello Sport
Leclerc, by comparison, was rated 7 out of 10 despite failing to convert pole into victory. The newspaper highlighted the Monegasque driver’s effort but pointed to the car’s failure after the second pit stop, which cost him the chance at the podium and the lead. In addition, a penalty for a maneuver on George Russell resulted in a five-second time loss:
“Another pole position without a win. He gave it his all, but the car’s collapse after the second pit stop left him with no chance. Half a point deducted for the manoeuvre on Russell, which cost him five seconds.” —La Gazzetta dello Sport
Calls for Ferrari to Reassess Strategy During Summer Shutdown
The publication’s overall conclusion is that Ferrari must take the upcoming summer break to reconsider their approach, which appears to be negatively affecting both drivers’ performances and morale. Both Hamilton and Leclerc appeared visibly shaken by their results after the 14th round, emphasizing the urgent need for a strategic rethink if Ferrari hopes to maintain a competitive edge and keep driver spirits high.
With the season resuming later this year and preparations already turning toward 2026, many experts agree a substantial shake up is essential within the Scuderia to reverse the current trajectory. This situation reflects wider tensions in F1, as rival teams and drivers continue to push hard during the championship battle.
