Italian media has erupted in a storm of criticism following a disastrous performance from Lewis Hamilton during the Dutch Grand Prix, with outlets branding his display as “inexcusable.” As Ferrari faced a weekend filled with turmoil, the spotlight shifted dramatically towards Hamilton, who left fans and analysts alike in disbelief after a series of blunders.
The renowned Gazzetta dello Sport did not hold back in its appraisal, noting the stark contrast between Hamilton’s missteps and Max Verstappen’s impressive second-place finish. Hamilton’s crash was a stark reminder of the mistakes that marred his race. “Ferrari is shattered,” the publication stated, emphasizing the chaos that ensued when Kimi Antonelli pushed Charles Leclerc off the track. While Leclerc struggled with a stroke of bad luck, Hamilton’s costly error was highlighted as a significant factor in the unfolding drama.
The article drew comparisons between Leclerc’s daring overtaking maneuver on George Russell and Valentino Rossi’s legendary move on Marc Marquez back in 2015, showcasing Leclerc’s skill even amidst adversity. Yet, the true star of the weekend was young Oscar Piastri, who dominated from the outset, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in Formula 1. Isack Hadjar also emerged with commendable performances, indicating a bright future ahead for these talented drivers.
However, while the media celebrated the achievements of others, Hamilton’s struggles took center stage. With a five-place grid penalty looming for the upcoming Monza race, the mood turned grim. Corriere della Sera was particularly blunt in its assessment, stating, “Despite Hamilton not going very badly over the weekend at Zandvoort, he comes up just a little short at the crucial moments.” The once-dominant champion appears to be fighting an uphill battle, with the dream of reclaiming his former glory seemingly slipping away.
Hamilton’s disastrous outing echoed the dark days of Ferrari’s past, reminiscent of a haunting incident during the 2020 Styrian GP when both Sebastian Vettel and Leclerc faced early exits. As the dust settled on the Dutch GP, it became clear: Leclerc may have faced setbacks, but he remains a driver on whom the team can rely. Meanwhile, Hamilton’s performance, described as the “worst of the day,” raises serious questions about his ability to keep pace with the competition.
As the F1 community gears up for Monza, one thing is certain: the pressure is mounting on Lewis Hamilton. With expectations high and critics sharpening their pens, the next race could either mark a resurgence or a further plunge into despair for the veteran driver. The world will be watching closely as Hamilton strives to reclaim his place among the elite in one of the most challenging seasons yet.
