Lewis Hamilton’s surprise confession about early days at Ferrari Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time F1 champion, admitted in a May 16, 2025, interview with PlanetF1 that his early days at Ferrari have been tougher than anticipated, revealing struggles with the SF-25 car and team dynamics. Despite high expectations after his 2024 move from Mercedes, Hamilton has trailed teammate Charles Leclerc in all six 2025 Grand Prix races, securing only a Chinese Sprint win. He confessed to needing a “brain transplant” to adapt to Ferrari’s engine braking and car setup, acknowledging “lots of things” holding him back. However, Hamilton remains optimistic, dismissing critics and focusing on upcoming upgrades for the Spanish Grand Prix. He emphasized a long-term view, stating, “Let’s talk at the end of my career here at Ferrari.” With Ferrari fourth in the constructors’ standings, Hamilton’s candid remarks highlight the challenges of his dream move, yet he believes in the team’s potential.

Lewis Hamilton Opens Up About Struggles in Early Ferrari Days

Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has made a candid confession about the unexpected difficulties he’s faced in his debut season with Ferrari. In a revealing interview with PlanetF1 on May 16, 2025, Hamilton admitted that his transition from Mercedes to Ferrari has been more challenging than anticipated, particularly in adapting to the SF-25 car and integrating into the team’s dynamic.

Despite the excitement surrounding his blockbuster move in 2024, Hamilton has yet to find his rhythm. In the first six races of the 2025 season, he has consistently finished behind teammate Charles Leclerc, with his only highlight being a win in the Chinese Sprint race. Hamilton pointed to struggles with the car’s engine braking and setup, jokingly saying he feels like he needs a “brain transplant” to fully adapt to Ferrari’s unique systems.

“There are lots of things holding me back right now,” Hamilton admitted. He expressed frustration with his current form but remained upbeat about Ferrari’s future. “It’s a long journey. Let’s talk at the end of my career here at Ferrari,” he said, signaling his commitment to the team and its long-term project.

Currently, Ferrari sits fourth in the Constructors’ Championship, a position below expectations given the hype around Hamilton’s arrival. However, the British driver is placing his hopes on upcoming car upgrades for the Spanish Grand Prix and believes they could mark a turning point in the season.

Hamilton also dismissed critics who have questioned his decision to leave Mercedes, emphasizing his focus on growth and progress. While the dream Ferrari start has not materialized, Hamilton remains determined to make his mark, believing in the team’s potential to rise and deliver success in the future.