The frustrations surrounding Lewis Hamilton are mounting, with criticism emerging about his attitude off the track. His first year driving for Ferrari, famously dubbed the “Ferrari Red Hamilton Maiden Year,” has not gone as planned. As he headed into the summer break, Hamilton made a bleak assessment of his current performance and prospects. Having described himself as “useless,” he revealed plans to compete in the upcoming F1 Netherlands Grand Prix.
Matteo Bobbi, a Sky Italia GT racing champion and commentator, noticed Hamilton’s negative body language and downbeat remarks during media interviews. Speaking to Gazzetta, Bobbi expressed disappointment over Hamilton’s mood in his Hungary interview, saying he wants to see Hamilton display confidence and the composure of a seven-time world champion.
Hamilton’s struggles were evident on Saturday during the F1 Hungarian Grand Prix qualifying, where teammate Charles Leclerc qualified 12th while Hamilton secured pole position. Leclerc eventually finished fourth in the race, outperforming Hamilton once again. Since winning a sprint race in China, Hamilton has rarely shown moments of triumph.
Bobbi emphasized that Hamilton must remember his true identity, asserting that Lewis still has the speed and mental strength to achieve better results. He credited Hamilton for bringing a winning mindset to Ferrari, a team used to success under very different circumstances. However, Bobbi also noted that Leclerc seems to be channeling his speed better, while Hamilton appears unmotivated and out of character, leading to his frustration.
Previously, Hamilton’s habits and behavior contributed to his success, but now doubts have crept in—“Can I get back to how I was before?” This self-doubt has lingered and peaked during the Hungarian Grand Prix. The F1 season will continue after the summer break at the Dutch Grand Prix.
Fan Take: This news is crucial for racing fans as it highlights the intense mental and physical challenges even the greatest champions face. Hamilton’s struggle could redefine the dynamic within Ferrari and the broader F1 competition, potentially reshaping the sport’s landscape in the near future.
