Lewis Hamilton's Challenging Debut Season with Ferrari

Lewis Hamilton faced a significant setback during the qualifying session for the Las Vegas Grand Prix, marking a low point in his debut season with Ferrari. The seven-time Formula One world champion qualified last, finishing 20th, as rain created treacherous conditions on the track. Despite using dedicated wet tires, Hamilton struggled to find grip and was ultimately 2.3 seconds slower than his teammate, Charles Leclerc, who qualified ninth. Hamilton described the conditions as "as bad as it gets," stating, "I couldn’t see anything," and noted that he had to abandon a late qualifying lap due to yellow flags.

New York Times

Hamilton joined Ferrari for the 2025 season after a successful 12-year tenure with Mercedes, where he became the most decorated driver in F1 history. However, his first year with Ferrari has been challenging, with the team failing to secure a podium finish thus far. This season is poised to be the first in Hamilton's 18-year career without a podium, a situation he described as "the hardest year." Ferrari's performance has lagged behind rivals such as Red Bull and McLaren, contributing to Hamilton's difficulties.

New York TimesJenson Button on Ferrari chairman John Elkann telling Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc to 'talk less and focus on driving'BBC NewsThe IndependentESPNLewis Hamilton: Ferrari driver understands chairman John Elkann's 'talk less' comments about him and Charles Leclerc

Following the disappointing qualifying results, Hamilton expressed his frustration, stating, "It obviously feels horrible; it doesn’t feel good." He emphasized the need to focus on the upcoming race, acknowledging the challenges of starting from the back. Ferrari chairman John Elkann had previously commented that Hamilton and Leclerc needed to "focus more and talk less," a statement that drew mixed reactions. Hamilton downplayed the criticism, asserting that he and Elkann maintain a "great relationship" and that the team is united in their efforts to improve.

Lewis Hamilton: Ferrari driver understands chairman John Elkann's 'talk less' comments about him and Charles Leclerc

Critics have pointed out that Elkann's remarks may have been counterproductive, suggesting that direct communication with the drivers would have been more effective. Former F1 champion Jenson Button remarked that Elkann should have addressed Hamilton and Leclerc personally rather than making public comments. Button noted the immense pressure on Ferrari to perform, stating, "It's very easy to find your racing driver and go and talk to him."

Jenson Button on Ferrari chairman John Elkann telling Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc to 'talk less and focus on driving'Lewis Hamilton: Ferrari driver understands chairman John Elkann's 'talk less' comments about him and Charles LeclercESPNNew York TimesThe Independent

As the season progresses, Hamilton remains optimistic about the team's potential. He stated, "I back this team 100%, I back myself 100%," and expressed confidence that they will eventually achieve success. With only three races left in the season, Hamilton is determined to turn around his fortunes and contribute to Ferrari's resurgence in the sport.

BBC News

• “I felt like we were quickest after practice, and then you come out in qualifying 20th, and this year is definitely the hardest year.” — Lewis Hamilton, Formula One Driver

The Independent

• “I couldn’t see anything,” — Lewis Hamilton, reflecting on qualifying conditions

New York Times

• “It obviously feels horrible; it doesn’t feel good.” — Lewis Hamilton, on his qualifying performance

The Independent

• “We have a quick car. But it will be really hard to come back from last.” — Lewis Hamilton, on the challenges ahead

The Independent

Hamilton's debut season with Ferrari has been fraught with challenges, but his resilience and commitment to the team remain evident as he looks to finish the year on a high note.

New York Times