Lewis Hamilton savaged by Michael Schumacher's brother with Sebastian Vettel comparison made
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Ralf Schumacher has launched a fresh attack on Lewis Hamilton, claiming the seven-time world champion lacks the car development abilities that made his brother Michael exceptional.
The former Formula One driver's criticism comes as Hamilton prepares for his move to Ferrari next season.
Speaking to Sport1.de, Schumacher asserted that unlike his brother Michael, Hamilton has never been able to effectively develop a car to suit his driving style.
"The biggest difference is that Michael, among many other qualities, was able to develop a car perfectly for his driving style together with the engineers," Schumacher told Sport1.de. "Lewis can't do that."
Lewis Hamilton will join Ferrari next season
GettySchumacher pointed to comments from Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, who he claims has emphasised that "a driver should step on the gas and the engineers should develop."
In contrast, he noted that Michael "always gave his confidants like Ross Brawn or Jean Todt the direction."
Schumacher also expressed doubts about Hamilton's prospects at Ferrari, where Charles Leclerc is firmly established.
"That makes things even more difficult for Lewis: because Charles Leclerc is the top dog," he added.
"Everyone in the team knows him. For Lewis, everything is new at Ferrari."
Ralf Schumacher doesn't think Lewis Hamilton is as good as his brother Michael
GETTYHe further highlighted the differences between Hamilton's situation and his brother's Ferrari move, noting: "Michael came to Ferrari as the current world champion and was much younger. That's not the case with Lewis."
Schumacher's criticism extended beyond car development, even suggesting Hamilton requires specific conditions to succeed.
Speaking to Sky Germany, he said: "Hamilton is certainly exceptional, but also needs a bit of the perfect environment and car, just like Sebastian Vettel."
He contrasted this with Max Verstappen's adaptability, stating: "Max Verstappen, what he has achieved this year in these circumstances – problems with Christian Horner, the departure of Adrian Newey."
Hamilton will have the opportunity to prove his critics wrong when he makes his Ferrari debut in the 2025 Formula One season next March.
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Michael Schumacher won seven F1 titles during his careerGETTYThe British racing superstar, who shares the record of seven world championships with Michael Schumacher, signed a multi-year deal with Ferrari.
He'll be hoping to return to the front of the grid on a regular basis after several years of frustration at Mercedes.
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