Lewis Hamilton is facing a significant handicap at Ferrari during the 2025 Formula 1 season, as his age appears to affect his ability to compete at the highest level without an exceptionally competitive car. This situation has emerged amid growing concerns over Ferrari’s difficult position under team principal Fred Vasseur.
Hamilton, a seven-time World Champion, has experienced a rocky start to his inaugural year with Ferrari following his notable switch from Mercedes, highlighting the struggle to keep pace in a car that lacks dominance.
Former Ferrari Driver Critiques Team’s Direction Under Vasseur
Rene Arnoux, who once raced for Ferrari, has publicly stated that the team is currently “in a bad way” under Fred Vasseur’s leadership. Arnoux points to Hamilton’s age-related challenges as a key factor contributing to his handicap within the team and the broader performance issues Ferrari is facing this season.
Flavio Briatore Criticizes Media Coverage of Franco Colapinto
Alpine’s Flavio Briatore has voiced strong disapproval toward the negative media attention surrounding driver Franco Colapinto, blaming Argentine press for sensationalism. Colapinto has struggled to perform since stepping in for Jack Doohan before the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix last month. The Austrian Grand Prix will serve as the concluding race of Colapinto’s initial five-race contract.
Criminal Trial Scheduled for William Oakes, Brother of Ex-Team Principal
Legal troubles have surfaced for William Oakes, brother of former Alpine team boss Oliver Oakes, who is set to face trial on charges related to possessing large sums of ‘criminally-obtained cash.’ He has appeared twice before Northampton Crown Court, denying accusations involving £831,885, €46,120, and $10,000 in illicit money. Meanwhile, bail has been granted pending further legal proceedings.
Brad Pitt’s Private Test Drive With McLaren Precedes F1 Movie Release
Hollywood actor Brad Pitt recently conducted a private test with McLaren’s Formula 1 vehicle at the Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas. This test occurred just days before the premiere of the much-anticipated F1-themed film, where Pitt portrays Sonny Hayes, a seasoned racer making a dramatic comeback. The event was part of a Testing of Previous Car (TPC) session.
Daniel Ricciardo Commits to New Ventures, Rejects Retirement
Despite losing his seat at Racing Bulls in September 2024, Daniel Ricciardo insists retirement is not an option. The Australian veteran, who celebrates his 36th birthday next month, announced the launch of a fresh venture that marks his continued involvement in the sport beyond active racing. Ricciardo’s Formula 1 career includes eight wins over 257 starts since his 2011 debut.
Implications of Hamilton’s Setback and Ferrari’s Struggles in F1 2025
Lewis Hamilton’s handicap due to age and Ferrari’s ongoing difficulties under Fred Vasseur highlight broader challenges for the iconic team this season. As Hamilton battles to adapt to the less dominant Ferrari car, the team’s performance issues raise questions about leadership and strategy. With Ferrari’s rivals making strong gains, the 2025 championship fight looks increasingly precarious for the Scuderia, intensifying pressure on both Hamilton and Vasseur to deliver improvements in upcoming races.
