Lewis Hamilton is enduring one of the most challenging seasons of his Formula 1 career after his high-profile switch to Scuderia Ferrari has failed to deliver expected results. The seven-time world champion’s struggles intensified following the Hungarian Grand Prix weekend, prompting harsh self-criticism that has drawn sharp remarks from former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner, who condemned Hamilton’s negative outlook as counterproductive.

Hamilton’s Frustration Peaks with Self-Critical Remarks

At the Hungarian Grand Prix qualifying session, Lewis Hamilton, visibly disheartened by his underwhelming performance, described himself as ‘absolutely useless’ to Ferrari’s efforts. His blunt admission hinted at deep frustration and suggested that the team might consider replacing him to salvage their season. While some voices in the paddock, including former F1 authority Bernie Ecclestone, interpreted Hamilton’s comments as an indication he should retire, Steiner expressed clear disapproval of such self-deprecation from a driver of Hamilton’s stature.

Guenther Steiner reacted strongly to Hamilton’s public remarks, emphasizing that a competitor with seven world championships should not undermine himself in such a manner, regardless of current difficulties. Steiner acknowledged that all athletes face periods of adversity but argued that openly surrendering to those challenges reflects a flawed mindset.

How can you come out as being seven-time world champion saying, I’m useless? That was, it’s not his performance. I do not care about that. I’m not going into his performance. He’s struggling. At some stage in our life, we all struggle a little bit.

Guenther Steiner said on the Red Flags podcast

Steiner Labels Hamilton’s Attitude as ‘Wrong’ Amid Tough Phase

Steiner further criticized Hamilton’s choice of words, expressing concern that such negativity suggests a defeatist outlook rather than fighting spirit. He stated that portraying oneself as ‘useless’ signals a readiness to give up and evokes pity, a stance Steiner finds unacceptable from an elite athlete. Instead, he advocates for resilience and a focus on overcoming hurdles rather than succumbing to despair.

I still struggle, so I always struggle, but coming out and saying, oh, I’m useless. That’s the wrong attitude. And that is for me. I don’t like attitude of giving up, you know, or it’s an attitude that people should feel sorry for you.

Guenther Steiner added

Advising Hamilton to Concentrate on His Core Strength

Lewis Hamilton has been transparent about his efforts to assist Ferrari in addressing the car’s performance problems. He had indicated a willingness to collaborate closely with engineers and prepare detailed feedback to accelerate development. Despite these initiatives, Steiner noted the rapid shift from Hamilton’s proactive role to his recent public admissions of inadequacy, interpreting it as a sign that the Briton should reel in his focus on what has made him successful: racing.

A few weeks ago, [Hamilton was] sitting down the engineers telling them what to do and now you’re coming back and saying, I’m useless. It’s just focus on what you’re good at, which is driving a race car, because he’s good. He’s a seven-time world champion.

Guenther Steiner added

The Broader Impact of Hamilton’s Difficult Season at Ferrari

Hamilton’s arrival at Ferrari was meant to rejuvenate the historic team’s chances of championship success, but his ongoing struggles have revealed deeper issues within the Maranello outfit. His candid admission of feeling ‘useless’ underscores the mental toll the disappointing performances have taken on him. However, the upcoming summer break could offer Hamilton necessary respite, allowing him time to recharge and refocus amid a turbulent campaign.

As one of Formula 1’s most decorated drivers, Hamilton’s current predicament highlights the immense pressure even the sport’s elite face when adapting to new challenges. Steiner’s critiques spotlight how crucial attitude and mental resilience remain in determining success, suggesting that Hamilton’s path forward depends significantly on rediscovering his confidence and composure behind the wheel.