In a shocking revelation that has sent ripples through the Formula 1 community, it appears that a staggering “90% of Ferrari insiders” were vehemently opposed to the team’s controversial decision to sign the legendary Lewis Hamilton. The seven-time world champion made headlines when he switched from Mercedes to the iconic Scuderia Ferrari ahead of the highly anticipated 2025 season. However, what began as a thrilling chapter in F1 history has quickly devolved into a nightmare for Hamilton, who has yet to secure a podium finish in any of his 14 races with the team.
The former F1 star Arturo Merzario, who raced in the 1970s, has weighed in on the situation, suggesting that Hamilton’s challenging season was somewhat predictable. “I think his outburst [at the Hungarian Grand Prix] was ironic in some ways,” Merzario stated in an interview. “His position certainly wasn’t what one would expect from a seven-time world champion. Rather, it seems to me that Lewis is feeling demolished by Ferrari.” He went on to assert that Hamilton’s arrival at Maranello was primarily a commercial move, a sentiment echoed by many within the Ferrari camp.
The once-celebrated move to Ferrari has quickly turned into a tragic saga, with Hamilton himself even hinting at the possibility of stepping away from the team before the season’s end. His struggles have led to speculation that retirement might be the most viable option for the racing icon. Despite Hamilton’s occasional finger-pointing at the team, he has acknowledged the bulk of the blame for his underwhelming performances lies squarely on his own shoulders.
Ferrari, however, has been unwavering in its support for the 105-time race winner. They remain optimistic that the decision to pair him with Charles Leclerc will eventually bear fruit. Currently, Leclerc sits one spot ahead of Hamilton in the drivers’ championship—fifth place—though the 42-point gap underscores the stark reality: Leclerc has consistently outperformed his illustrious teammate both in qualifying and during race day.
As the summer break provides both drivers a moment of respite, the pressure is mounting. The F1 world eagerly anticipates how Hamilton will respond when they reconvene at Zandvoort for the Dutch Grand Prix next weekend. Will he rise to the occasion, or will this season be remembered as a colossal misstep in the annals of Formula 1 history? The clock is ticking, and the stakes couldn’t be higher for the once-mighty Hamilton.
