Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari Facing Early Crisis in … Read more
Lewis Hamilton’s much-anticipated move to Ferrari is showing signs of strain just six races into the 2025 Formula 1 season, with reports from Italy suggesting the partnership is already teetering on the edge of a crisis. When Hamilton announced his decision to leave Mercedes for Ferrari, many hailed it as a dream collaboration — the sport’s most decorated driver joining its most iconic team. However, the reality is proving to be far from ideal.
According to Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport, tensions are building between Hamilton and Ferrari, especially after a frustrating performance at the Miami Grand Prix. Hamilton’s visible irritation during the race — particularly when he sarcastically asked his engineers if they were taking a “tea break” while waiting for strategy instructions — highlighted deeper issues within the team. The pit wall delayed ordering Charles Leclerc to let Hamilton pass, squandering an opportunity when Hamilton still had better tyres. That hesitation resulted in both drivers finishing poorly, with Hamilton only managing eighth place. He now trails championship leader Oscar Piastri by a significant 90 points.
Italian media have not held back in their criticism. Gazzetta described the Hamilton-Ferrari partnership as “a luxury marriage that risks turning into a crisis.” The paper noted that Hamilton’s radio outbursts suggest more than just momentary frustration — they could be signs of a deeper dissatisfaction with how the team is being managed.
While the move was initially celebrated for its marketing potential — bringing new sponsors and elevating Ferrari’s brand — Gazzetta warns that without on-track success, these benefits could quickly backfire. The situation is further complicated by the team dynamic: Hamilton, a seasoned world champion, is still adjusting to Ferrari’s car, while Leclerc remains the team’s long-term cornerstone, having been groomed by Ferrari since his youth.
With the next race taking place at Imola — Ferrari’s home turf — the pressure is mounting. The expectations surrounding Hamilton’s arrival were sky-high, and failure to deliver results could have serious consequences. There is still hope, particularly with upcoming regulation changes in June that may help Ferrari bounce back. Yet as things stand, the Italian media believes the partnership faces a critical turning point.
Gazzetta concludes that bringing in a star like Hamilton brings with it massive expectations from fans and team alike. If those expectations continue to go unmet, the fallout could be severe. The coming races will determine whether this story becomes a dramatic failure or the beginning of a legendary resurgence.
