Ferrari’s Regret? Hamilton’s Bumpy Ride Sparks Controversy!
In a shocking revelation that has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 community, former Haas F1 team principal Guenther Steiner has claimed that “some people” within Ferrari are having second thoughts about their bold decision to replace Carlos Sainz with none other than Lewis Hamilton. The seven-time world champion’s recent performances have raised eyebrows and, according to Steiner, have even created “unrest” within the iconic Italian team.
The backdrop of this drama? Sainz’s stunning podium finish at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, a feat Hamilton has failed to achieve this season. While Hamilton struggled to secure a mere eighth place after starting in 12th, Sainz was busy celebrating his impressive third-place finish—Williams’ first full-points podium since 2017. The contrast couldn’t be more stark: Sainz, who was unceremoniously dropped from Ferrari, continues to shine at Williams, while Hamilton grapples with the pressures that come with being a marquee driver for the Scuderia.
Steiner elaborated on this unsettling narrative during a candid appearance on The Red Flags podcast. “I think some people in the team do,” Steiner stated when asked about potential regrets regarding Hamilton’s recruitment. He noted that while Ferrari’s management might not openly admit it—because that would imply a mistake—there are whispers of discontent among team members who witnessed Sainz’s remarkable performance.
Reflecting on Ferrari’s dismal showing in Baku, where they finished eighth and ninth, Steiner emphasized the contrast: “Carlos Sainz, now with Williams, finished third. So it’s like, I guess the guy feeling best about it is Carlos Sainz.” The implications are profound, as Ferrari’s decision to bring Hamilton on board for the 2025 season seems increasingly questionable.
Steiner candidly assessed the situation, declaring that Hamilton’s presence has brought an array of challenges to the team. “They wouldn’t have all the interference from outside of Lewis not performing, so the team could focus on going racing, making things better, instead of always trying to find out why Lewis doesn’t like the car,” he explained. The veteran F1 executive further pointed out that Hamilton’s financial demands are significantly higher compared to Sainz, questioning whether the investment in Hamilton is yielding the desired results.
Sainz’s podium finish in Baku was a testament to his resilience and determination. “This one means even more,” he declared, highlighting the emotional weight of the achievement amidst a challenging season with the struggling Williams team. Arriving at Baku after a series of disappointing results, Sainz’s victory not only silenced critics but showcased his unwavering belief in his capabilities.
While Hamilton’s reputation as an elite driver remains intact, his struggles this season have led to a surprising narrative: could Ferrari’s decision to replace Sainz with Hamilton become a cautionary tale? Steiner’s remarks bring to light the ongoing debate about the team’s direction and performance—an unsettling conversation that could shape the future of both drivers and the Scuderia itself.
As the F1 2025 season progresses, one thing is clear: the impact of personnel decisions in the high-stakes world of Formula 1 is profound, and the whispers of regret within Ferrari may only grow louder as the season unfolds. Will Hamilton rise to the occasion, or will Sainz continue to prove that he was the right choice all along? The saga continues!
