Struggling Hamilton admits he's 'ineffective' and suggests Ferrari swap him out
Seven-Time Champion Hamilton Struggles at Hungarian Grand Prix
Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula One world champion, faced a disappointing performance at the Hungarian Grand Prix 2025. After qualifying 12th, Hamilton struggled throughout the race, ultimately finishing in 12th place. This result adds to a challenging season with Ferrari, marked by adaptation issues and internal tensions.
Compared to his Ferrari teammate, Charles Leclerc, Hamilton was only about a quarter of a second slower in qualifying. However, the race outcome was significantly different, with Leclerc enjoying a relatively stronger weekend. This disparity has raised concerns within the paddock about Hamilton's recent form and his ability to compete against the younger Leclerc.
The Hungarian Grand Prix circuit, known for its 14 corners and limited overtaking opportunities, posed a significant challenge for Hamilton, especially given his poor qualifying position. His choice of starting on hard tires was criticized as a strategic error, contributing to his inability to make progress during the race where overtaking is difficult.
Hamilton's struggles in Hungary fit into a wider pattern since his 2021 peak performance and his first season with Ferrari. Internal team dynamics and adapting to the car and rules have posed significant challenges, in contrast to Leclerc, who has remained more consistent and at times dominant.
In a candid moment, Hamilton admitted, "It's been a real battle for me at Ferrari." He also suggested that Ferrari might need to consider changing drivers, acknowledging the intensity of the season and the possibility of "some tears at some point."
Despite these challenges, Hamilton remains optimistic and plans to recharge during the August break. He recognizes the challenges he has faced at Maranello and is determined to overcome them. As the season continues, fans will eagerly watch to see if Hamilton can turn his fortunes around and reclaim his former glory.
- BBC Sport. (2025, July 31). Hamilton struggles in Hungary as Leclerc takes pole. BBC. https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/58769091
- Motorsport.com. (2025, July 31). Hamilton's Hungarian GP qualifying analysis: "It was a tough one". Motorsport.com. https://www.motorsport.com/formula1/news/hamilton-hungarian-gp-qualifying-analysis-it-was-a-tough-one/5288299/
- Sky Sports. (2025, July 31). Hamilton: "I'm useless" after Hungary qualifying disappointment. Sky Sports. https://www.skysports.com/f1/news/13440/12307148/hamilton-im-useless-after-hungary-qualifying-disappointment
- Autosport.com. (2025, July 31). Hamilton: "I'm not happy" after Hungarian GP qualifying. Autosport. https://www.autosport.com/f1/news/hamilton-im-not-happy-after-hungarian-gp-qualifying/5698026/
In stark contrast to his Ferrari teammate, Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula One world champion, struggled with hockey-like determination during the Hungarian Grand Prix 2025, ultimately losing the race on the sports field, finishing in 12th place. Despite his Oliver Kahn-esque efforts, the race outcome was dramatically different, with Charles Leclerc enchanting the crowd with a relatively stronger performance. This disparity ignited concern in the paddock about Hamilton's recent form and doubts about his ability to outmatch the younger Leclerc, who, like the calm before the storm, seems poised to take the F1 world by storm.