Lewis Hamilton admits surprise struggles at Ferrari ahead of new season – ‘I need to adapt’

The 40-year-old British driver now finds himself in unfamiliar territory for the first time in over a decade.

“I’m still getting used to a completely new car, a completely new way of working,” Hamilton told media, including Total-Motorsport.com.

Lewis Hamilton has made a huge change in his Formula One career at the age of 40

Reuters

The transition marks a significant departure from his previous team switch in 2013, when he moved from McLaren to Mercedes, both of which used Mercedes power units.

Hamilton has revealed that adapting to Ferrari’s SF-25 requires significant modifications to his driving style, with multiple technical challenges to overcome.

The steering system presents a particular adjustment, being “completely different” from what he experienced at Mercedes.

Basic operational elements like switch positions on the car’s controls have required familiarisation, while the software systems also differ from his previous team.

Having spent his entire Formula 1 hybrid era career with Mercedes, Hamilton must now adapt to Ferrari’s distinct power unit characteristics and setup processes.

The transition extends beyond just the car itself, with Hamilton needing to learn new terminology and development approaches specific to the Italian team.

JUST IN: British Indoor Athletics Championships event delayed after fire forces Utilita Arena evacuation

“I definitely have to adapt my driving style,” Hamilton acknowledged, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the technical adjustments required.

The geographical shift presents another significant challenge, with Ferrari’s headquarters in Maranello situated 853 miles from Mercedes’ Brackley base.

This move has required Hamilton to adapt to an entirely new operational environment, far from his familiar surroundings in the UK.

The Italian team’s unique methods of working have demanded Hamilton learn new approaches to car development and race preparation.

READ MORE: Cristiano Ronaldo labelled a ‘f****** man-child’ for his red card reaction

Lewis Hamilton has admitted he needs to adapt at Ferrari

Reuters

Daily team operations at Ferrari differ substantially from his previous experience, requiring adjustment to their distinctive working culture.

Unlike his previous team changes, which kept him within the familiar Mercedes power unit ecosystem, this switch represents a complete departure from his established routines.

The transition encompasses everything from basic team communication to complex engineering discussions, marking a comprehensive change in Hamilton’s working environment.

Despite the challenges, Hamilton maintains an optimistic outlook about his transition to Ferrari.

LATEST SPORT NEWS:

• Luke Littler makes feelings clear after losing temper during Gerwyn Price Premier League defeat
• Roy Keane’s daughter, 29, makes heartbreaking admission after being diagnosed with incurable disease
• Travis Kelce admits surprise response to Super Bowl loss after ‘going off the grid’ amid retirement rumours

Lewis Hamilton is hoping his experience can help him succeed at Ferrari

PA

“I actually feel quite good in the car,” Hamilton said of his adaptation process. “And I just take it all step by step.”

The 105-time Grand Prix winner remains focused on preparing for the Australian Grand Prix, where he aims to secure his ninth pole position at the circuit.

Hamilton emphasises that real race experience will clarify the areas requiring further adjustment.

“The more real races we have, the clearer it becomes how much we are already on the same line, and where I still have to change and how much,” he explained.

The British driver remains confident in his ability to master the transition.

“The key to this is to approach it dynamically. With my experience, it should work out,” Hamilton added.