Lewis Hamilton‘s move to Scuderia Ferrari has turned into a difficult journey, sparking rumors that his retirement may be imminent. Observers are increasingly concerned as Hamilton’s performance has noticeably declined, igniting discussions among pundits regarding the potential reasons behind this unsettling trend.
Various theories have emerged about Lewis Hamilton’s recent slump; some speculate that the seven-time champion may be grappling with the effects of age, while others suggest that distractions from his numerous off-track commitments could be impairing his focus. However, former Formula 1 team principal Franz Tost provided a different perspective on Hamilton’s struggles, asserting that the evolution of Formula 1 itself presents unique challenges.
“Hamilton’s example proves how complex Formula 1 has become,” Tost remarked, emphasizing that “it’s all about hundredths of a second that can make the difference.” At the recent Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, these nuances manifested clearly, as Hamilton found himself consistently behind his teammate Charles Leclerc, losing valuable time in every sector during practice.
This raises a critical question: does Hamilton’s driving style align with the demands of modern Formula 1? Many observers trace the beginning of his performance decline back to 2022, coinciding with the introduction of ground effect regulations. Unlike prior models he navigated with ease, Hamilton’s approach now seems incompatible; he prefers late braking into corners and subtle steering adjustments, which hampers stability in ground effect cars. This is reflected in Hamilton’s own complaints about feeling disconnected from the SF-25, describing it as unstable during turns.
While age could influence his performance, Tost suggests it might not be the principal factor.
Leclerc knows the team, and the age difference is also his advantage,
Tost explained. According to him, the internal competition only intensifies the stakes, with Leclerc pushing relentlessly to prove himself against a driver of Hamilton’s stature.
Hamilton’s current predicaments in Formula 1 are pivotal, not just for his career, but also for the future of the sport. As he continues to face these obstacles in adapting to a rapidly evolving environment, questions loom over whether he can reclaim his former glory or if this signals a significant transition in a new era of Formula 1 racing.
