Lewis Hamilton has addressed the intense scrutiny he has faced since joining Ferrari, acknowledging the heightened attention that comes with representing Formula 1's most historic team.
The seven-time world champion has experienced mixed fortunes in his opening races with the Italian outfit, with his victory in the China sprint race standing as a highlight amid challenging performances.
Hamilton's every move, from radio communications to post-race interviews, has become subject to what some have described as "borderline hysteria" when results haven't met expectations.
Speaking ahead of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Hamilton was philosophical about the intense focus on his Ferrari move.
Lewis Hamilton has admitted he expected tougher scrutiny at Ferrari
Reuters
"On one side it's to be expected – it [Ferrari] is the greatest team in Formula 1 history, it's that special," he said.
"Of course there's more stories that are written about it and people have opinions. And it's not always been smooth sailing."
The combination of Formula 1's most successful driver with its most iconic team has created what Hamilton describes as a "potent level of scrutiny".
Hamilton has been candid about the challenges of transitioning to a new team after more than a decade at Mercedes.
"From my perspective, you can't work with a team and change things overnight," Hamilton explained.
Ferrari team boss Frederic Vasseur previously acknowledged this reality, stating: "You won't replace 12 years of collaboration in two weeks or two races."
The current generation of F1 cars requires specific driving styles and operational procedures, with drivers needing to develop muscle memory for steering wheel adjustments.
Actions that were once instinctive now require conscious thought during this adjustment period.
Hamilton emphasised that improvements at Ferrari will require both immediate and future adjustments.
It is still early days for Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari
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"We've spent time getting to know each other," he said.
"There are changes that are short term that we'll do together, keep all the greatness and keep building all the areas that we could be stronger in.
"Everyone in this team, their heart is so in it. It's like we're riding a rollercoaster together, up and down, and I have no doubts we will get to where we plan to be – it's just going to take time."
Currently, Hamilton sits seventh in the Drivers' standings with 25 points, though his tally would be higher if not for disqualification from sixth place in China due to excessive plank wear.
Lewis Hamilton secured a fifth-place finish at the Bahrain Grand Prix, marking his best result so far in the 2025 season apart from his sprint win in ChinaGETTYRecent upgrades to the Ferrari SF-25 floor could improve Hamilton's prospects with the team.
After finishing fifth in Bahrain, Hamilton remained positive about his learning journey.
"I've learned a lot from today, and this weekend actually a lot, probably more than all the other weekends," he reflected, demonstrating his belief that progress is being made despite the challenges.
