Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula 1 world champion, is under scrutiny for his reluctance to embrace simulator training, as highlighted by former racer Ralf Schumacher. The ongoing concerns about Hamilton’s simulator weakness have intensified following his difficult debut season with Ferrari in 2025, where he failed to finish on the podium and struggled behind his teammate, Charles Leclerc.
Hamilton’s Difficult Transition at Ferrari
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari at the start of the 2025 season was met with high hopes, but reality proved challenging for the British driver. Throughout 24 race weekends, he was unable to capture a single podium, finishing sixth in the drivers’ standings, 86 points adrift of Charles Leclerc in identical machinery. With new regulations arriving in 2026, there is speculation that the forthcoming generation of F1 cars might better complement Hamilton’s driving abilities, but doubts remain unless he adapts his approach to modern preparation techniques.
Ralf Schumacher, speaking candidly, has pointed to Hamilton’s limited engagement with simulator work as a key weakness affecting his performance in recent years. Schumacher noted that while testing opportunities have diminished, making simulators essential for developing familiarity with complex cars, Hamilton is perceived as dismissive of such preparation. Schumacher explained that this issue is not solely about Hamilton’s age but also relates to his mindset and willingness to adapt in a rapidly changing sport.
“Expectations were enormous,” Ralf Schumacher told Sport1 regarding Hamilton’s first year with Ferrari.
“I received a lot of criticism when I said he wouldn’t be fighting for the world championship and would need time to keep up with Leclerc. And that’s exactly how it turned out. There are no more tests. In the past, winter tests would have helped. But behind the scenes, you hear that he doesn’t like simulators. And he’s still looking for that old driving feel. That tells me it’s not just age, but also a mental thing. He’s no longer willing to open up. I know that feeling myself – on a different level. Fred Vasseur now hopes that he’ll embrace the package more next year. I think the chances are slim. The car is becoming more twitchy, Leclerc can handle that, Hamilton needs stability at the rear.”
A Persistent Weakness and Changing Demands in F1
Schumacher also recalled that Hamilton’s aversion to deep involvement in car setup has been noted since his early racing days, reinforcing ongoing doubts over his technical adaptability.
“Hamilton was never much of a setup tinkerer,”
Schumacher continued.
“That was already known from his Formula 3 days. Toto Wolff always said at Mercedes: ‘The drivers drive, the team does the setup’. You can’t change that overnight. That’s a weakness.”
Hamilton has defended himself from external criticism, yet even Schumacher feels increased self-awareness is necessary amidst mounting pressure.
“I find his statement interesting that only people who have never been as successful as him criticise him. He’s basically right – but a little more self-reflection would still do him good.”
The Threat of Early Retirement Looms
Looking ahead, 2026 marks the last season of Hamilton’s current contract with Ferrari. If his performances do not improve significantly, the Italian team may be reluctant to extend his tenure. The new technical regulations due for 2026 are said to benefit drivers with significant simulator experience and backgrounds in sim racing, such as Max Verstappen and younger competitors. These changes will introduce cars that are more dependent on electronics and aerodynamic adjustments, amplifying the challenges for drivers who are unaccustomed to simulator-based preparation.
If the reports of Hamilton’s unwillingness to adapt are accurate, his Formula 1 career could conclude sooner than expected. Rumors are circulating that Ferrari will consider alternatives, such as rookie Ollie Bearman, for the 2027 season following his promising year with Haas in 2025. Bearman belongs to a younger generation raised on racing simulators, which could give him a distinct advantage as F1’s technical landscape continues to evolve.
What This Means for Hamilton and F1’s Future
The outcome of Hamilton’s adaptation will determine not only his future in F1 but also Ferrari’s prospects as they navigate a dramatic period of technological transformation. Hamilton’s simulator weakness has emerged as a pivotal factor, putting immense pressure on both his performance and willingness to change. Fans and insiders alike will be watching closely in 2026 as the sport’s modern demands test one of its most successful icons under an unfamiliar spotlight.
