Toto Wolff has addressed Lewis Hamilton’s difficulties during his first year with Ferrari, suggesting that the driver is experiencing significant frustration. Speaking to GPblog, Wolff acknowledged that Hamilton is facing a challenging period but remains confident a turnaround is possible after a few stronger race weekends.
“It’s clear that there is moments of big frustration… he just needs another good race weekend or two and then we’re gonna see a very different Lewis Hamilton.” —Toto Wolff
Wolff also confirmed that Hamilton’s decision to move from Mercedes to Ferrari was largely influenced by performance considerations, coupled with the appeal of racing for the iconic team. He explained that Ferrari’s competitiveness appeared more promising at the time, and noted Hamilton’s personal preference for the team’s identity.
“We weren’t as competitive as we would have wished. Ferrari looked better. Every racing driver wants to race in Ferrari. He likes the color red anyway. The deal that was on the table was very good. And that’s, like I said, these reasons are still valid today.” —Toto Wolff
The Mercedes team principal reflected on Hamilton’s emotional reactions during tough moments, such as his recent qualifying disappointment in Hungary, where Hamilton suggested he should be replaced. Wolff sympathized, emphasizing that expressing emotion is part of what makes Hamilton a superstar.
“I thought that was wrong to say that and I told him that the same evening and again the next day… He speaks his emotion… and that makes him the superstar he is.” —Toto Wolff
Wolff further compared Hamilton’s current Ferrari experience to Michael Schumacher’s later years at Mercedes, stressing that these final phases of their careers do not define their legacies.
“He’s gonna retire, nobody’s gonna 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.” —Toto Wolff
Lewis Hamilton’s Performance Challenges Throughout the 2025 Season
Lewis Hamilton’s 2025 campaign with Ferrari has been marked by inconsistency and underwhelming results. Currently holding 6th place in the standings, Hamilton trails his younger teammate Charles Leclerc by 45 points in a striking generational gap.
The season began on a difficult note with Hamilton finishing 10th at the Australian Grand Prix in Albert Park. He briefly showcased speed and skill by securing sprint pole position and winning the sprint race in China, sparking hope for improvement.
However, Hamilton’s podium appearances have been scarce since then. Apart from a third-place finish in the Miami sprint race, his best results in the main races have been fourth place in Emilia Romagna, Austria, and Silverstone. This contrasts sharply with Leclerc’s consistent top performances and championship contention.
The Broader Impact on Hamilton’s Career and Formula One
Hamilton’s struggles at Ferrari have sparked discussions about his motivation and form as he competes in the later stages of his illustrious career. While the move to Ferrari was intended to revive his prospects, the results so far have been mixed, reflecting both car performance and adaptation challenges.
Toto Wolff’s perspective offers reassurance that these difficulties do not diminish Hamilton’s overall legacy, comparing them to other great drivers whose final racing chapters were less celebrated. With Ferrari continuing to develop the car and Hamilton’s experience, there remains potential for a resurgence in performance.
As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will remain on Hamilton to see if he can overcome the current setbacks and reaffirm his status within Formula One, while contributing to Ferrari’s pursuit of renewed success.
