Formula 1: Ferrari already worried about Lewis Hamilton’s form?

Formula 1: Ferrari already worried about Lewis Hamilton's form?

Many people recall the exact location when they heard that Lewis Hamilton would team up with Ferrari for the 2025 Formula 1 season in February. The statistical greatest driver ever aligning with the most triumphant and legendary team in motor racing is not an everyday occurrence, and it made a significant mark on the worldwide stage.

Year after year, rumors circulated about possible discussions between Hamilton and Ferrari, yet these talks never led to anything substantial. Hamilton, for the record, has consistently expressed no desire to join Ferrari and, furthermore, has shown little inclination to depart from Mercedes.

He even signed a contract in 2023 that presumably kept him at Mercedes until the end of 2025.

In light of Mercedes’ difficulties in the ground effect period, coupled with Ferrari’s resurgence and consistent advancement during the same timeframe, that contract was essentially irrelevant when it came to assembling what is widely regarded as one of the greatest driver duos ever, featuring Charles Leclerc.

But there are doubts about this partnership being the fairytale many initially thought it would be, even before Hamilton has turned a lap in the car.

At first glance, it might appear that Lewis Hamilton’s farewell season with Mercedes in 2024 was a triumphant one. After all, he did secure two victories, which is double the number he achieved in both 2022 and 2023 combined. His victory at the British Grand Prix stands out as one of the most heartwarming stories from recent times, and it’s safe to say that it was one of his finest performances for Mercedes overall.

But beneath the surface of the highs were many lows, especially toward the end of the season.

Hamilton ended up in seventh position overall, his worst career ranking, as his teammate George Russell came in sixth, with a 22-point advantage, despite being disqualified from winning in Belgium, which gave the victory to Hamilton, and having to withdraw from a potential podium finish at Silverstone.

In addition to defeating Lewis Hamilton in the championship twice, a feat accomplished by Russell for the first time among Hamilton’s teammates during their collaboration, Russell also emerged victorious against Hamilton in the year 2022. To add to this, Russell outperformed Hamilton in qualifying rounds by 19-5 in the year 2024, and this margin increased to 24-6 when considering Sprints as well.

2021 found Hamilton concluding the season with three qualifying round exits across six races, an identical tally to his past 270 Grand Prix appearances. Such a decisive defeat for the record-holder of pole positions is undeniably cause for concern.

In my gaming world, I’ve had some tough races that left me stunned. For instance, during the wet Sao Paulo Grand Prix, I made countless mistakes and ended up in 10th place. In the United States Grand Prix, I spun into the gravel on lap two, landing me in last place. Things were a bit better in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where I finished ninth, but unfortunately, it was Franco Colapinto in the Williams who outran me, even though it was only my second career start.

Across the board, we’ve seen many uncharacteristic things from Hamilton in recent times.

Hamilton’s 2024 season showed how susceptible he has become to lack of self-confidence and driving a car he doesn’t like.

Many spectators attributed his difficulties to the team already focusing on Russell since they knew he was departing, possibly excluding Hamilton from discussions or failing to provide him with adequate improvements. Alternatively, some, even Mercedes themselves, argue that Hamilton struggles to adapt to the current generation of vehicles.

Man, let me tell you, I was taken aback by how often Hamilton seemed to lose control with oversteer or lock up under braking in crucial situations. It felt like he was consistently making mistakes or simply couldn’t keep the car stable, while Russell just shone brightly in contrast.

What’s particularly concerning is the fluctuating nature of his self-assurance. During the mid-year stretch from Silverstone to Spa, Lewis Hamilton appeared and spoke with unwavering confidence, securing two victories and multiple podium finishes in a vehicle he seemed content with.

However, only two races after Monza, Hamilton found himself qualifying in sixth position. The remainder of the day saw him constantly criticizing himself about his struggles with qualifying, expressing dissatisfaction that the team wasn’t getting the best performance from Kimi (Antonelli) they deserved.

After a disappointing performance in Brazil during the weekend, he considered giving up for the remainder of the season and beginning anew in 2025. Furthermore, he admitted in Qatar that he feels slow after qualifying for the sprint race.

What may have been overlooked are the psychological connections that emerge between Hamilton playing exceptionally well when he leads and performing more moderately when his chances are limited. Although this isn’t always true, it seems like he might lose drive and his competitive edge when the stakes are lower.

For someone as prominent as him, it’s quite alarming to be joining a team with a contrasting automobile ideology and a high-pressure atmosphere, even during success, neither of which he has encountered before.

As a fervent supporter, I eagerly anticipate that Lewis’s shift to Ferrari next year will serve as a fresh impetus, rekindling his spirit. Currently, it’s challenging to witness his resilience being tested, but his mantras “still I rise” and “never give up” are a testament to his indomitable spirit.
— Logan Ploder (@LoganPloder328) December 2, 2024

With all of that in mind, Ferrari should be very concerned about what they’re getting with Hamilton entering 2025.

In the bustling environment of Maranello, if Hamilton’s “shortcomings” are not addressed, they could potentially derail him. It is crucial for both Hamilton and Ferrari to devise a strategy that helps him adapt effectively when the cars take to the track in Australia for the first race. Otherwise, this collaboration might unravel at an alarming pace.

Regardless of the concerning indicators, Ferrari appear unfazed by Lewis Hamilton’s performance as he prepares for his first season with them.

And really, why should they be? This is Lewis freakin’ Hamilton we’re talking about here.

With the third-highest amount of racing experience among all drivers, there’s no doubt that if anyone can learn from past mistakes, address their shortcomings, and evolve, it’s Hamilton. Despite some challenges in 2024, there were notable bright spots, such as his consistent race performance. His speed was consistently impressive, often equaling or surpassing Russell’s. This was particularly noticeable when he performed well during qualifying sessions.

I can’t help but marvel at the way Lewis Hamilton conquered Silverstone under challenging circumstances, demonstrating all the prowess and talent he still holds within him. His remarkable comebacks from 10th place in Las Vegas to a strong second position, and from 16th in Abu Dhabi to a commendable fourth spot, show that he thrives when he feels at ease with his vehicle and has something significant to pursue.

As a gamer, I’m eagerly anticipating the version of Lewis Hamilton that Ferrari hopes to bring on board – the one packed with unparalleled skill, a wealth of racing experience, an uncanny calmness under pressure, and an indomitable will that’s driven by his desire to make history. He’s highly motivated, ready for a fresh start, and determined to go flat out to etch his name as the sole eight-time world champion in Formula 1 history.

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