Lewis Hamilton’s struggles adapting to the Ferrari team have intensified since his move in January 2025, impacting both his performance and team dynamics. The seven-time Formula 1 champion has yet to reach the podium with Ferrari, while teammate Charles Leclerc has already achieved three podium finishes this season. Currently, Hamilton sits sixth in the drivers’ championship, trailing Leclerc by 25 points amid a series of disappointing results.
Ongoing Technical and Communication Challenges with Ferrari’s SF-25
Hamilton’s adjustment issues stem partly from difficulties working with Ferrari’s SF-25 car and its development path. Coming from Mercedes, where he spent 12 seasons, Hamilton has found it challenging to align with Ferrari’s established operational approach. Frustrated by what he perceives as resistance to change, Hamilton has openly challenged his engineers. He explained,
“I’m constantly fighting with the engineers, asking them questions. They set things up in a certain way and say ‘we’ve always done it this way.’ And I say to them: ‘What if we tried this instead?’
—Lewis Hamilton, Driver
This tension reflects a clash of cultures as Hamilton attempts to influence Ferrari’s engineering mindset and push for innovation, while the team adheres to traditional methods.
Strained Team Relations and Race Strategy Concerns
The difficulties extend beyond the garage, with Hamilton showing visible frustration during race weekends. His dissatisfaction often surfaces over team radio, particularly toward race engineer Riccardo Adami and Ferrari’s strategic decisions. This friction has occasionally led to team orders affecting Hamilton and Leclerc, as Ferrari strives to manage internal competition amidst Hamilton’s inconsistent race pace.
The Pressure to Step Up in Ferrari’s Championship Pursuit
Although Hamilton regularly finishes in the top six, these results fall short of Ferrari’s expectations, especially as the team aims to secure its first Formula 1 championship since 2008. Hamilton’s ability to adapt and deliver stronger performances is considered pivotal to Ferrari’s title ambitions. The ongoing challenges raise questions about whether Hamilton can overcome his current frustrations and play a leading role in Ferrari’s 2025 campaign or if continued struggles will deepen uncertainties about his future with the team.
