Former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher has criticized Lewis Hamilton‘s adaptation struggle with Ferrari, describing the seven-time champion as too “dramatic” in his public complaints. Schumacher pointed out that Ferrari’s car is designed to suit Charles Leclerc’s driving style, making it harder for Hamilton to adjust, especially considering his age and experience.
Hamilton’s difficulties became apparent at the Hungarian Grand Prix, where he failed to advance past Q2 in qualifying while teammate Leclerc secured pole position. This was the second consecutive qualifying session where Hamilton performed below expectations, following a Q1 elimination at the Belgian Grand Prix. After Hungary, Hamilton referred to himself as “useless” and even hinted that Ferrari might need to replace him.
The race did little to lift Hamilton’s spirits as he finished 12th, matching his starting position and marking his first race without points for Ferrari. After the event, Hamilton released a veiled comment on Ferrari’s internal workings, stating:
“There’s a lot going on in the background that’s not great.”
In a recent interview with German outlet BILD, Ralf Schumacher expressed his disappointment with Hamilton’s mentality throughout this difficult period.
“I said before the season that this could go wrong. Currently, I see a lot of drama from him. He’s been slamming the team, criticizing internally, arguing with the car—that doesn’t help anyone,” the Sky Sports F1 analyst said. [Translated by Google]
Schumacher also acknowledged the challenge Ferrari faces in accommodating two top drivers, emphasizing that their current car clearly favors Leclerc over Hamilton. He weighed in on whether Hamilton might leave Ferrari before the season ends.
“The car suits Leclerc, not him. Maybe he’s too old to adapt. Or he just can’t cope. I think the decision for Leclerc was made long ago. But I don’t think he’ll quit during the season.”
Though Schumacher doubts Hamilton will exit Ferrari mid-season, he left room for the possibility that the British driver could end his multi-year contract earlier than planned.
Bernie Ecclestone Questions Ferrari’s Choice to Sign Hamilton
Former F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone has also expressed skepticism about Ferrari’s decision to sign Lewis Hamilton, describing it as potentially “not the right decision.” The 94-year-old noted that Hamilton’s political nature fits Ferrari’s culture but suggested there is still room for Hamilton to revive his performance.
Speaking to F1destinations, Ecclestone remarked:
“I am not sure that taking Lewis was the right decision. Lewis is obviously talented, but a little bit political, which is typical for Ferrari and typical for him. But he could come to life again, which would be good for him and good for Ferrari.”
Despite the challenges, Hamilton’s best result so far this season came during the Chinese Grand Prix weekend, where he translated a Sprint pole into a Sprint race victory, though a full podium finish with Ferrari remains elusive.
The on-going Lewis Hamilton Ferrari adaptation struggle highlights the complexity of integrating a multiple world champion into a team with a car favoring another lead driver. As the season unfolds, maintaining harmony and extracting maximum performance from both drivers will be critical for Ferrari’s championship hopes.