Lewis Hamilton received a show of support from his Ferrari team principal, Fred Vasseur, on Sunday, following a disappointing performance at the Hungarian Grand Prix, where the British driver finished 12th. His underwhelming result came after a weekend filled with frustrations, raising questions about his future at the Scuderia despite his high-profile move for the 2025 season.
Hamilton’s struggles, especially in the wake of his reported £60 million-a-year contract (roughly R1.44 billion), have prompted speculation. Critics have questioned why Ferrari is investing so heavily in a 40-year-old driver, especially when there are numerous younger, promising talents available on the grid for less money. Additionally, Hamilton has struggled to match his Mercedes teammate, George Russell, in the 2024 season, further fueling doubts about his switch to Ferrari.
Hamilton’s troubles were clear on both Saturday and Sunday in Hungary. During qualifying, he failed to make it out of Q2, a result that left him visibly dejected. Describing himself as “completely useless” and suggesting Ferrari should “bring in another driver,” Hamilton appeared overwhelmed by the pressures of adapting to Ferrari’s car and culture.
In the race itself, his teammate, Charles Leclerc, faced his own setbacks. Leclerc started from pole but was unable to convert that position into victory due to unexplained mechanical issues. Meanwhile, Hamilton found himself mired in the midfield, finishing the race in 12th—exactly where he started. It was a far cry from the dominance he had enjoyed at Mercedes, where he claimed six world titles.
With the mounting frustrations, talk of Hamilton’s potential retirement began to swirl, but Vasseur was quick to defend the seven-time world champion.
Vasseur Stands by Hamilton
Ferrari’s team boss, Fred Vasseur, acknowledged Hamilton’s frustration but emphasized that the driver’s passion was a key part of his success. Speaking to the press, Vasseur stated:
“I don’t need to motivate him. Honestly, he’s frustrated, but not demotivated. He’s demanding, but I think it’s also why he’s a seven-time world champion. I can perfectly understand this situation.”
Vasseur further noted that drivers in any sport often speak impulsively after disappointing results, and Hamilton’s outbursts should be seen in that context.
“Sometimes, just after the race or just after qualifying, you are very disappointed, and the first reaction is harsh. I can understand the frustration, but we are all frustrated.”
Vasseur also pointed out that Hamilton’s weekend performance might have been worse than it appeared on the surface, noting that the margins in qualifying were incredibly tight.
“He was in front of Charles in Q1, and with the first set, he was just one-tenth off in Q2. We were not far away from having both cars out in Q2.”
Vasseur remains confident that Hamilton will bounce back, adding:
“When he was alone, his pace was good. I’m sure that he will be back and perform.”
Leclerc, who finished in fourth place in the race, also expressed solidarity with Hamilton.
“At the end, we are one team, and as much as I want to finish in front of Lewis, I want both of us to be successful,” Leclerc said. “This weekend has been a tough one for Lewis, but I have no doubt that it’s a one-off, and I’m sure the second part of the season will be a lot more positive.”
For Hamilton, who currently sits sixth in the drivers’ standings and is yet to secure a podium with Ferrari this season, the upcoming August summer break is a much-needed opportunity to recharge.
“I’m looking forward to a break from work,” Hamilton said, as he prepares for the Dutch Grand Prix at the end of the month.
With the season half over, Hamilton and Ferrari will hope that the second half brings better results, as the seven-time world champion continues to adjust to his new team and the challenges ahead.
Main Image: Newsweek
