Lewis Hamilton’s highly anticipated move to Ferrari has hit unexpected turbulence, with the seven-time world champion struggling to adapt and deliver results in his first five Formula 1 weekends with the iconic Italian team. The Race F1 Podcast dives into your biggest questions about Hamilton’s rocky start, what’s holding him back, and whether he can find his form before the 2026 rules reset.
Hamilton’s Tough Transition: Not Gelling With the Ferrari
Hamilton’s optimism after a promising stint in Bahrain quickly evaporated as he faced a string of underwhelming performances. Admitting he’s “just not gelling with the car,” Hamilton has repeatedly found himself off the pace compared to teammate Charles Leclerc, particularly in qualifying, where he’s struggled to extract the maximum from the Ferrari. Technical challenges, including adapting to new braking systems and the team’s unique driving tools, have compounded the adjustment period after over a decade with Mercedes.
Results Under Scrutiny: Low Performance Sparks Debate
The disappointing debut—finishing 10th in Australia—has fueled debate in Italy about Ferrari’s decision to sign Hamilton, especially given his “low performance” in the final years at Mercedes. While Hamilton did clinch a sprint race win in China, race-day struggles and even a disqualification for excessive skid-block wear in Shanghai have kept him from building momentum. Critics question whether Hamilton can recapture his championship-winning form, or if Ferrari’s gamble will pay off.
What’s Next for Hamilton and Ferrari?
Despite the shaky start, Hamilton’s arrival has been a commercial windfall for Ferrari, driving a surge in merchandise sales and global attention. On track, however, the pressure is mounting. The Race F1 Podcast explores if the upcoming 2026 rules overhaul could offer Hamilton the reset he needs, and what the future holds if his struggles persist. The discussion also touches on Ferrari’s broader challenges—like the risk of Charles Leclerc becoming a “wasted talent” and the potential for Max Verstappen to join the Scuderia.
More Than Just Hamilton: F1’s Burning Questions
Beyond Hamilton’s Ferrari woes, the podcast answers listener questions on Oscar Piastri’s progress, Williams’s prospects, pitlane tactics, and the crucial upcoming races for Lando Norris.