Hamilton’s Struggles Highlight Growing Challenges at Ferrari
In the latest Formula 1 race at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Lewis Hamilton finished sixth, a position bolstered by Max Verstappen’s penalty. His performance, however, raises critical questions about his transition from Mercedes to Ferrari. Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert suggests that Hamilton may have lost his grip on the sport, advocating for Ferrari to prioritize the younger Charles Leclerc.
Hamilton’s sixth-place finish marks a stark contrast to his earlier expectations, with the driver openly labeling it as "the worst" race he has experienced in his long career. His ongoing struggle to adapt to Ferrari’s unique dynamics is evident: he has been immersively engaged in data analysis and factory work in Maranello, yet the desired improvements remain elusive.
Technical issues also plague Ferrari, including a problematic setup that contributed to Hamilton’s disqualification in the Chinese GP. His preference for a stiffer car setup has been challenged by the team’s current softer suspension settings. Additionally, slow upgrades compared to competitors like Mercedes and Red Bull have hampered Ferrari’s performance.
Historically, many legends, including Alain Prost and Sebastian Vettel, faced similar challenges when joining Ferrari, often ending their careers without a title. Hamilton, currently sixth in the driver standings and 23 points adrift of Leclerc, finds himself in a precarious position. The steep learning curve intertwined with culture and language barriers adds layers of complexity to his integration into Ferrari.
While Hamilton’s switch was primarily viewed as a long-term strategy for the 2026 regulations—and with it, a shot at an eighth title—doubt is creeping in among his supporters. As the season unfolds, questions about the efficacy of such a transition loom large, and the celebrated driver’s future remains uncertain.
