Former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard has described Lewis Hamilton’s difficulties at Ferrari during the 2025 season as “uncomfortable to watch.” Despite joining the Scuderia this year, Hamilton has yet to reach the podium, contrasting sharply with teammate Charles Leclerc, who has finished in the top three in four races so far.
Hamilton’s early days at Ferrari have been challenging, with the seven-time world champion lagging behind Leclerc in performance. While recent races have shown signs of progress, such as Hamilton out-qualifying Leclerc in three of the last four events and narrowly missing a podium at the British Grand Prix, the overall start has been underwhelming.
David Coulthard Reflects on Hamilton’s Early Ferrari Challenges
Coulthard highlighted that Hamilton’s performance felt especially lacking before the Silverstone race. Aside from a sprint race win in China and the improved showing at Silverstone, the former driver expressed discomfort watching Hamilton’s struggles.
Silverstone felt more comfortable. Up until Silverstone, and putting China to one side, it’s felt uncomfortable watching Lewis there,
Coulthard told F1’s official website.
He added that Hamilton hasn’t appeared as quick as Leclerc, noting the significance of Ferrari’s name in the sport and how important it is to see a competitive race car from them.
But at Silverstone, it looked like he was more on top of things. Was that just because it was Silverstone or not? That remains to be seen.
Jenson Button Comments on Hamilton’s Frustrations with Ferrari
Lewis Hamilton has voiced his dissatisfaction with Ferrari’s 2025 car, the SF-25, and stressed the need for the team to enhance its performance to become a title contender. His former McLaren teammate, Jenson Button, believes that Hamilton’s current difficulties stem partly from adjusting to a new environment and the dynamics of an Italian team.
You always expect Lewis to be at the front; you expect him to be on a par with his teammate, if not better, but we’ve not seen that this year,
Button said.
He pointed out the additional challenges Hamilton faces due to the change in team culture and language, highlighting that Leclerc is deeply integrated into the team, giving him an advantage.
So, it’s tricky, but if anyone can be competitive in that car, moving in the way that he has, it’s Lewis. It’s a matter of time, but I’m sure it’s getting a little frustrating in terms of not being able to get the maximum out of the car.
Looking Ahead: Ferrari’s Upcoming Upgrades Could Shift Momentum
Ferrari plans to introduce a major suspension upgrade at the Belgian Grand Prix, which may help Lewis Hamilton improve his performance and possibly close the gap with Charles Leclerc. This technical development offers hope that Hamilton’s 2025 campaign could still gain momentum, altering the current dynamic within the team.
As the season unfolds, Hamilton’s adaptation to Ferrari’s SF-25 and the team’s responsiveness to upgrades will likely determine whether the seven-time world champion can regain his usual front-running form.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lewis Hamilton vegan?
A. Race car driver Lewis Hamilton openly expresses his passion for veganism. He also invests in businesses related to plant-based products.
Q. Is Lewis Hamilton a vegan?
A. Lewis Hamilton believes he showed people who doubted him that he could succeed by following a vegan diet. Hamilton decided to go vegan in 2017, even though his doctors advised against it. After adopting this diet, he has won four championships and mentioned that his energy levels have increased. Hamilton is one of several professional athletes successfully transitioning to a plant-based diet.
