Why Lewis Hamilton Struggles to Adapt in Ferrari’s Toughest Season Yet

The Ferrari principal stressed that the challenge was not just learning a new car, but that the team’s culture, as well as people and methods of working are unique, and these have proven challenging to adapt to, especially considering that Hamilton’s poor start (no podiums in 15 races) was an indicator.

The 7-time world champion himself has voiced similar sentiments. He referred to the transition to Ferrari as a “huge challenge,” saying:

“I really do feel a lot of people underestimated the steep climb it is to get into a new team, to become acclimatised within the team – understanding and communication, all sorts of things…" he said a while ago.

“The amount of critics and people I heard, yapping along the way, clearly not understanding. Maybe because they never had the experience or were just unaware."

The British legend has been open about his own frustrations, even describing himself as “useless” after a disappointing Hungarian Grand Prix. 

But Lewis Hamilton argues that the struggles are part of a longer-term journey. He insists he is “thankful for the current challenges” because they are laying the groundwork for Ferrari’s future.

The 2025 season has shown us how hard even the best drivers can struggle to adapt to another team.

Lewis Hamilton now goes to his second home GP with Ferrari, attempting to out-do his finish in the first, 4th, which was his best finish yet.

This week's Monza GP doesn't start in the best way, having a 5-place grid penalty for his incident with Piastri at Zandvoort. 

Ferrari will also celebrate Niki Lauda’s 1975 title 50th anniversary with a retro livery. The legendary Austrian driver was a mentor for Hamilton, so this could give him extra motivation. It would be a great story if Lewis Hamilton earns his first podium with Ferrari this weekend.