Lewis Hamilton’s relentless pursuit of winning may be limiting Ferrari’s potential in 2025, according to his former Mercedes team-mate George Russell. With Hamilton’s move to Ferrari kicking off this season, Russell suggests that the seven-time World Champion’s mindset of viewing anything less than victory as failure could become counterproductive.

Russell, who shared the garage with Hamilton at Mercedes for three years, spoke before the Canadian Grand Prix about why Hamilton’s start at Ferrari has yet to reach the heights many expected. Despite early achievements like winning the Sprint race in China and outqualifying Charles Leclerc in consecutive events, Hamilton trails his teammate, who has already secured all three of Ferrari’s podium finishes and leads by 25 points in the championship.

The Challenges of Maintaining Peak Performance Under Pressure

Russell reflected on the immense pressure Hamilton faces to consistently win, which may push both the driver and the Ferrari team beyond realistic limits.

“I think when you’re a seven-time World Champion, anything less than victory is failure, and you’re probably pushing yourself and your team over the top to achieve beyond the potential, to try and achieve these great results, and potentially it’s counterproductive,”

he said.

He recalled Hamilton’s top form at Silverstone the previous year and at the recent China race, emphasizing that Hamilton’s talent remains unquestionable. However, Russell underscored the reality that, right now, only McLaren holds a strong chance for regular wins this season, making it difficult for other teams, including Ferrari, to consistently compete at that level.

“But, for all of us, unless you’re in the orange car, at the moment, the chance of victory is slim, and for all of us, it’s frustrating. It’s frustrating for me, it’s frustrating for Leclerc. Charles is such a great driver as well, and hasn’t had a shot at a championship properly, maybe 2022, slightly, but that’s the nature of this sport.”

—George Russell

Comparing Hamilton’s Current Struggles with Past Teammates’ Views

In addition to Russell’s insights, Fernando Alonso, Hamilton’s teammate during his rookie season at McLaren in 2007, was asked about Hamilton’s ongoing difficulties this year. Alonso expressed uncertainty about the reasons but acknowledged Hamilton’s skill and potential for a comeback.

“What’s wrong with him? I have no idea,”

Alonso admitted.

He added that after 24 races, the situation may become clearer and that Hamilton is capable of quickly turning his form around. Alonso also noted parallels with last season when Russell appeared to adapt more easily to the Mercedes car, suggesting that Hamilton’s struggles may relate partly to car performance.

“But, it’s difficult to give an opinion without having all the information.”

—Fernando Alonso

Long-Term Commitment Amidst 2025 Performance Hurdles

Despite these challenges, Hamilton has committed to a multi-year contract with Ferrari that extends into the major updates for 2026’s chassis and engine rules. This indicates faith in future developments to enhance Ferrari’s competitiveness and Hamilton’s chances of pursuing an unprecedented eighth World Championship.

As the 2025 season unfolds, Hamilton’s mental approach and Ferrari’s ability to navigate the current competitive landscape will prove crucial. With McLaren setting the early pace this year, Ferrari faces the task of balancing ambition and realistic expectations while refining their car and team dynamics.