Lewis Hamilton

Hamilton admits Ferrari underestimated his arrival, speaks on his struggle

12:24, 06 Sep

bySamson Ero

Lewis Hamilton has recently reflected on his struggles since joining the Scuderia Ferrari team. The British driver hinted at how difficult it has been following his move to the Maranello-based outfit.

Hamilton, when asked whether his debut campaign with the Italian team has been the most difficult of his illustrious career so far, explained that while he has endured tough seasons in the past, this one feels relatively different due to several factors.

Speaking with GPblog during the Italian Grand Prix weekend, the seven-time champion stated:

“I don't remember every single season, to be honest, and I don't really want to compare it to others. I'm sure there have been plenty of seasons that have felt difficult. I remember 2009 was difficult. I remember 2010, 2011 wasn’t great."

“2012 was a pivotal moment for me. Obviously, 2022 and 2023 as well. So there have been plenty of others that were just different. I was just in a different place in my life. But I think this one, really living the dream, moving to race with Ferrari, is unique.”

“Of course, I had the whole of last year to think about it and try to prepare, but there are still things you can’t foresee. There’s been a lot of adjustment, both from my side and the team’s side, to Ferrari’s way of working. And I think they’ve really moved heaven and earth to accommodate me.”

Hamilton: The harder it is, the better

Lewis Hamilton admitted that he relishes the pressure he has faced at Scuderia Ferrari. While he suggested the team may have underestimated the challenges of his arrival, Hamilton stressed that the tougher the battle, the greater the reward.

“And obviously, there are cultural differences. I think Fred [Vasseur] made a comment that they perhaps underestimated me joining the team, and then, of course, the problems we’ve faced with the car this year."

“So, yeah, a combination of all those things definitely makes it… Honestly, I think the harder it is, the better it can make you. And I think this year has been tough for everyone within the team, but it really prepares us for better days.”

“And I think we’ll be stronger having gone through this tough first six months. I’m really, really excited and motivated for a positive uphill battle from here. I feel like I’ve got the best people around me to do that.”