Lewis Hamilton's Ferrari debut has been a tough ride, and the struggles continue. It's a storyline that has left fans and analysts alike both intrigued and, at times, disheartened.
What's happening?
The seven-time world champion, Lewis Hamilton, has been experiencing a challenging season with Ferrari. Despite showing improved speed in recent races, he hasn't managed to secure a podium finish. This has led to former FIA steward Johnny Herbert describing the situation as 'horrible to watch'.
A Tale of Two Drivers:
In the first part of the season, Hamilton struggled to match his teammate, Charles Leclerc, particularly in qualifying. This often put him at a disadvantage on race day. While the gap in pace between the two drivers has narrowed, Hamilton is still searching for that top-three finish in 2025.
Mexico City: A Case Study:
The Mexican Grand Prix perfectly illustrated Hamilton's woes. After qualifying third, just behind Leclerc, he was in contention for the lead but got tangled up with Max Verstappen. A penalty for failing to use the escape road correctly pushed him down the order, and he finished in eighth place. Leclerc, on the other hand, had a flawless race, securing second place and his seventh podium of the season. The points difference between the two teammates is now 64 points.
Herbert's Perspective:
Johnny Herbert observed that a pattern is emerging. He highlighted the exciting racing between Hamilton and Verstappen but noted Hamilton's frustrating weekend. He mentioned that Hamilton seemed happier with his qualifying performance, but it didn't translate into race success.
The Ongoing Saga:
Herbert described the situation as an 'ongoing saga' for Hamilton, with Leclerc consistently performing well. Hamilton has expressed feeling more comfortable with the car, so fans are hoping for progress in the remaining races.
The Bigger Picture:
Ferrari is engaged in a tight Constructors’ Championship battle with Mercedes and Red Bull. Millions of pounds in prize money are at stake. Going into the final four rounds, only 10 points separate the three teams.
But here's where it gets controversial... Could the pressure of the new team, or perhaps the car's setup, be playing a role in Hamilton's struggles? Is it simply a matter of bad luck, or are there deeper issues at play?
What do you think? Are Hamilton's difficulties a temporary setback, or do they signal a more significant shift in the competitive landscape? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
