Nico Rosberg has highlighted Lewis Hamilton‘s determination in pushing Ferrari for significant improvements during the 2025 Formula 1 season, demonstrating the driver’s motivation despite the difficult start. Hamilton’s efforts to influence changes across the Italian team come as Ferrari struggles to capitalize on its decision to build a completely new car this year.
Lewis Hamilton’s transfer from Mercedes to Ferrari at the start of 2025 surprised many in the Formula 1 community, as it united the sport’s most accomplished driver with one of its most prestigious teams. The move initially generated excitement given Ferrari’s competitive position just behind McLaren in the championship standings. However, the season has failed to meet expectations, complicating Hamilton’s adaptation and intensifying pressure on the team.
Ferrari’s gamble on a fresh car design has not delivered the anticipated results, with Hamilton finding it challenging to keep pace with teammate Charles Leclerc, who appears more comfortable with the new machinery. This struggle could undermine the position of a driver still relatively new to the team’s environment. Nevertheless, Hamilton has actively engaged with Ferrari’s leadership and technical staff, providing detailed feedback to accelerate development and find solutions.
Hamilton’s Active Role in Ferrari’s Technical Discussions
In recent weeks, Hamilton has been holding frequent meetings with senior figures at Ferrari, including key executives such as John Elkann, Benedetto Vigna, and team principal Fred Vasseur. These discussions have focused on identifying critical weaknesses and planning for future improvements. Hamilton has shared extensive documentation outlining specific areas where Ferrari’s car falls short, emphasizing components like the engine, front suspension, and rear suspension.
This proactive stance extends into ongoing development cycles, as Hamilton is not only addressing present problems but also contributing ideas geared towards improving the 2026 car. His commitment to maintaining open communication with various department heads, including car development lead Loic and others, signals his intent to collaborate deeply on technical strategies.
Rosberg Highlights the Value of Hamilton’s Persistence
Nico Rosberg praised Hamilton’s determination as a positive sign for Ferrari. Speaking with Sky Sports, Rosberg emphasized the importance of listening to a seven-time world champion’s insights, while acknowledging the complexity and long timelines involved in making technical changes. According to Rosberg, many of the improvements Hamilton suggests, such as brake system upgrades or balance adjustments, require extended development periods rather than quick fixes.
“He’s a seven-time World Champion, so you definitely have to listen to what a seven-time World Champion is telling you. But it also takes time. Many of the things they cannot just change overnight. If the brakes are an issue, it’s a long lead time to develop the new brake system. Or if he’s not happy with the balance, it’s a really long process.”
—Nico Rosberg, Former F1 World Champion
Rosberg also noted that Hamilton’s push indicates his refusal to give up despite the team’s struggles. He described Hamilton’s determination to influence team owners and leadership as an encouraging sign of resilience and commitment.
“So in many senses, he will be even thinking about next year already now as well, with some of the things that he’s talking about. I think it’s a good sign, though, that we’re hearing that Lewis is pushing, you know. He’s not like resign, giving up, but he’s really pushing hard, the team, the owners, the team boss. That’s a great sign.”
—Nico Rosberg, Former F1 World Champion
Details from Hamilton on His Collaborative Approach
Ahead of the Hungarian Grand Prix, Hamilton himself described how the past weeks had been busy with strategic conversations to address Ferrari’s car performance issues. He highlighted a series of meetings with the top management and technical leads where he laid out his concerns and suggestions on different parts of the car.
“I hold a lot of meetings, I’ve called lots of meetings with the heads of the team. I’ve sat with John, Benedetto and Fred in several meetings. I’ve sat with the head of our car development, with Loic, also with the heads of different departments, talking about the engine for next year, talking about front suspension for next year, talking about rear suspension for next year – things that you want, issues that I have with this car.”
—Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Driver
He further revealed that he had provided the team with comprehensive written feedback documents at multiple points during the season, aiming to support Ferrari’s ongoing development processes.
“I’ve sent documents through the year. After the first few races, I did a full document for the team. Then during this break, I had another two documents that I sent in and so then I come in and want to address those.”
—Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari Driver
The Road Ahead for Hamilton and Ferrari
While the technical input from Hamilton promises to assist Ferrari in refining their car for current and future seasons, the driver himself faces pressure to elevate his own performance. Maintaining a status as the second driver within the team could impact his influence and how he is perceived inside Ferrari. Hamilton’s ability to consistently deliver results will be crucial if he wishes to strengthen his standing alongside Charles Leclerc and within the broader F1 community.
Ferrari’s willingness to listen and respond to Hamilton’s feedback represents a strategic move to regain competitiveness after a challenging start. As the 2025 season progresses, the developments initiated by Hamilton’s push for change could determine Ferrari’s trajectory in the highly competitive Formula 1 landscape, influencing both team morale and championship prospects.
