One of F1’s most successful racers, Lewis Hamilton, appears to have lost his magical touch. There was a time when Hamilton ‘not winning a race’ was a rare phenomenon. Fast forward to 2024, when the seven-time world champion has just won two races in the last three seasons. Those two victories were registered in this season’s first half. However, the second phase of 2024 has been no different, as Hamilton is struggling for pace, failing to enter the top spots.
However, his Ferrari move earlier this year was one of the biggest shockers in F1 history. Seismic waves rippled throughout the paddock while the Mercedes boss remained nonchalant. Toto Wolff claimed that Hamilton’s exit was “on the radar” as the 39-year-old racer struggled to perform.
“Everyone Has A Shelf Life,” Toto Wolff Hints Towards Hamilton’s F1 Performance Decline
Lewis Hamilton and Toto Wolff are close friends on and off the track. Their strong bond extends beyond the racing paddock. However, they have been tense between them since Hamilton’s Ferrari move. Recently, the Mercedes F1 team launched a book that covered candid thoughts of the team members. Wolff stated that he had seen Hamilton’s move even before the official announcement. Earlier, the Briton signed a contract with Mercedes, publicly stating he will want to end his F1 career with the Silver Arrows. However, Mercedes only offered him a “one plus one-year” contract, while Ferrari gave him a multi-year contract.
In the book Inside Mercedes F1: Life in the Fast Lane, released on Thursday, Wolff took a brutal swipe at Hamilton, stating, “I Like This Situation.” He further explained that talking about an F1 icon’s retirement is never easy. The Austrian executive was hinting at underfiring Hamilton, who has been off-color for the past couple of years. Moreover, he added that motorsport is all about ‘cognitive sharpness,’ which tends to drop down with age. Hamilton will turn 40 next year, and Wolff recognizes the importance of bringing in fresh talent to eventually succeed a superstar at the right time.
However, the seven-time world champion has affirmed he feels better than ever. In a recent interview, Hamilton highlighted his mental toughness, emphasizing on increased reaction time. Briatore is a fitness enthusiast who prioritizes a healthy lifestyle, which helps him stay agile and energized even in his late thirties.
Why Is Lewis Hamilton Struggling With Current F1 Machinery?
Since the ground effect regulation was implemented, Hamilton has had difficulty controlling the F1 machinery. The Briton has endured endless aching Qualifying sessions, while teammate George Russell has performed better. In the Austin GP recently, Hamilton beached his W15 despite a strong headstart. Thus, there is definitely some controlling issue troubling the 39-year-old racer.
Reviewing the early race footage, it is evident that Hamilton brakes later but turns early, losing control. On the other hand, Russell does the exact opposite with more confidence. The Briton also makes a narrow entry into a turn, later trying to compensate with a sharper rotation. He loses a 10th of a second on every turn, manifesting into a constant problem. Thus, the current F1 cars are surely troubling the F1 icon, but it could also be due to Merecde’s clueless upgrades.