Apr.21 (GMM) The first signs of criticism aimed at Lewis Hamilton are beginning to emerge from the Ferrari camp.
The seven time world champion’s move from Mercedes to Maranello was arguably the biggest talking point of the entire winter – but five races in, it is clear that the 40-year-old is struggling.
Hamilton’s mood notably slumped in Saudi Arabia.
When asked if he felt comfortable in the car at Jeddah, the record-holding winner of 105 career grands prix answered: “No, not for a second.
“I mean, the car is clearly capable of finishing third as Charles (Leclerc) is on the podium, so I can’t even say it’s the car,” said the Briton.
“Obviously I’m not happy with my results, and I know the fans aren’t happy. I’m sure the team isn’t happy either, and I know the bosses aren’t happy.”
When asked if he knows what to do next to improve, Hamilton answered simply: “No. There’s really nothing to take away from these three weeks except that I’m slow.
“I mean, there’s a lot in the data obviously, but to be honest, the difference with Charles in the data doesn’t seem significant. It’s just … I’m slower in the corners.
“We have a slightly different setup, so I need to see if the car likes that setup better. Obviously Charles and his side are just doing a better job.
“I have a week of work coming up, not a week off. After today, I’ll have to cancel some things.”
However, Hamilton sees no light at the end of the tunnel for now. “I think I’ll suffer in Miami too,” he said. “I don’t know how long I’ll struggle, but it’s definitely painful. There’s no solution at the moment,” he told Sky Italia.
“So … that’s how it’s going to be for the rest of the year. It’s going to be painful,” said Hamilton, who quipped despondently that perhaps a “brain transplant” would help.
Team boss Frederic Vasseur has stridently defended a much-needed adjustment period for Hamilton, but the first signs of frustration emerged at Jeddah late on Sunday.
While hailing Leclerc’s first podium of the season, Vasseur said of Hamilton: “It was more difficult for him – 30 seconds behind Charles.
“He had a decent second stint, but he struggled at the end. He’s having too many ups and downs – he has them and the team has them.”
The Frenchman continued to Sky Deutschland: “I haven’t discussed it with him, but it’s a bit up and down. He wasn’t always that far off the pace, but I’ll have to discuss it with Lewis first.”
When asked what he thinks is wrong with Hamilton, Vasseur answered: “It’s the confidence in the car and also the confidence in himself, as everything is new here.”
Former senior Ferrari engineer Toni Cuquerella, however, does not think Hamilton is still adapting to an unfamiliar Maranello-built car.
“I think it won’t take too much longer for him to adapt,” he told DAZN. “He’s already adapted.
“This is the Hamilton we have in F1 now – the same one who left Mercedes with (George) Russell ahead of him.”
The Indianapolis 500 is an American tradition, and the 2026 race marks the 110th year of this historic event. Guests of Grand Prix Tours will enjoy premium accommodations, options for exclusive suite access, and unforgettable race-day experiences, including a police escort to the track. Highlights include visits to the newly renovated Indy 500 Museum, Gasoline Alley, and the Dallara IndyCar Factory, plus patriotic pre-race festivities like the singing of “Back Home Again in Indiana.” Join us for our 41st trip to the legendary Indy 500!
SHOW PACKAGES
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, a fan favorite on the F1 calendar. The city comes alive for race week packed with energy, events, and unforgettable nightlife. This year, the action shifts to Memorial Day weekend (late May), part of F1’s new, eco-friendly schedule. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the atmosphere where motorsport meets Montreal magic. Book your spot now this one sells out fast!
SHOW PACKAGES