Lewis Hamilton’s turbulent farewell tour with Mercedes has drawn sharp criticism, with Guenther Steiner, the outspoken former Haas team principal, suggesting the seven-time champion’s frustrations are amplified by his impending move to Ferrari. Hamilton’s recent struggles, including a dismal showing at the São Paulo Grand Prix, have fueled speculation about his mindset as he approaches the end of his Mercedes era.
Hamilton’s Complaints: More Than Just Frustration?
Hamilton’s fiery remarks following his Q1 exit in Brazil, calling the W15 the “worst car I’ve ever driven,” have been interpreted by Steiner as a byproduct of his looming departure.
“I think Lewis knowing that he’s leaving anyway, it’s easier to complain,” Steiner quipped on The Red Flags Podcast.
“He doesn’t like the car or how it drives. In three races, he’s not there anymore.”
In contrast, Steiner praised George Russell’s work ethic, framing the younger Mercedes driver as a man fighting for his future within the team.
“George knows his seat is not 100 per cent safe. He’s giving everything, trying to show he’s the leader of the team.”
The IP Jab: A Laughable Concern?
When questioned about Hamilton potentially taking valuable Mercedes intellectual property to Ferrari, Steiner dismissed the idea with characteristic wit:
“Nobody wants it! Maybe Ferrari wants it to know what not to do,” he joked.
“I was actually hoping someone would steal Haas’ IP. Please, just take it!”
Hamilton Skipping Meetings: A Strategic Withdrawal?
Reports that Hamilton has stopped attending Mercedes’ internal meetings raised eyebrows. Steiner downplayed the significance of this, attributing it to Hamilton’s vast experience.
“Lewis has so much experience he doesn’t need to be in these meetings. His engineer is there. The car is what it is.”
Mercedes’ Woes: Confusion and Contradictions
Steiner didn’t hold back in criticizing Mercedes’ inconsistent season, highlighting the team’s shifting narrative about their understanding of the car.
“They won three races and said, ‘We understand now.’ Then the next race, they didn’t. That means they didn’t understand it.”
A Tale of Two Drivers
Steiner’s analysis paints a vivid contrast between Hamilton and Russell’s approaches to a challenging season. While Russell views the glass “half full” and fights to solidify his place as Mercedes’ future, Hamilton’s dissatisfaction and vocal complaints reflect a driver ready to move on.
As Hamilton eyes Ferrari and Mercedes grapples with its shortcomings, one thing is clear: the final three races of 2024 will be less about glory and more about survival for both the driver and the team.
