Il percorso “LENTO” di Lewis Hamilton in Ferrari: è oscurato da Charles Leclerc? La leggenda della F1 Johnny Herbert ha rivelato una verità “scioccante” sulle prestazioni di Lewis Hamilton in Ferrari. Secondo lui, Hamilton sta seguendo un “percorso molto lento” per recuperare terreno rispetto al suo giovane e talentuoso compagno di squadra. Un inizio difficile per la leggenda britannica?
The Formula 1 world is buzzing with speculation as Lewis Hamilton embarks on a new chapter with Scuderia Ferrari in the 2025 season. The seven-time world champion, who made a shock move from Mercedes after an illustrious career there, has faced a rocky start in red. According to F1 legend Johnny Herbert, Hamilton is on a “very slow path” to catching up with his teammate, the prodigious Charles Leclerc. Is the British icon being overshadowed by the Monegasque sensation? Herbert’s “shocking” revelation has ignited debates about Hamilton’s adaptation to Ferrari’s high-pressure environment.
Hamilton’s arrival at Ferrari was met with immense excitement. Fans and pundits alike anticipated a dream team pairing with Leclerc, blending Hamilton’s unparalleled experience with the 27-year-old’s raw speed and precision. However, early races in the 2025 calendar have painted a different picture. In the opening Grand Prix in Bahrain, Hamilton qualified P5, a full two places behind Leclerc’s P3, and finished the race with a similar gap, hampered by setup issues and a lack of confidence in the SF-25 car. Subsequent rounds in Saudi Arabia and Australia showed marginal improvements, but Hamilton’s lap times consistently lagged by 0.3 to 0.5 seconds per lap compared to Leclerc’s effortless pace.
Johnny Herbert, a former F1 driver with over 100 Grand Prix starts, didn’t mince words in a recent interview on Sky Sports F1. “Lewis is on a very slow path to recovery,” Herbert stated emphatically. “It’s shocking to see how much ground he has to make up against Charles. The kid is flying, and Lewis seems stuck in neutral. This isn’t the Hamilton we know—the one who dominates from the get-go.” Herbert pointed to Hamilton’s age, now 40, as a potential factor, suggesting that the physical demands of adapting to a new team and car might be taking a toll. “Ferrari’s car suits Charles’ aggressive style perfectly, but Lewis needs time to fine-tune his approach. It’s like he’s learning to walk again in this machinery.”
Leclerc, on the other hand, has been a revelation. The Ferrari ace has secured two podiums in the first three races, showcasing blistering one-lap speed and tire management skills that have eluded Hamilton so far. Team principal Fred Vasseur has publicly backed both drivers, but whispers in the paddock suggest internal tensions. Hamilton himself has been philosophical, admitting in a post-race press conference, “It’s a process. Ferrari is a different beast, and I’m committed to getting it right. Charles is quick, no doubt, but I’ve been here before.”
Experts believe Hamilton’s “slow path” could be strategic. With his vast experience, he might be prioritizing long-term setup development over immediate results, aiming to unlock the car’s potential for the European season. Yet, the pressure is mounting. Ferrari’s constructors’ championship hopes hinge on both drivers performing at their peak, and if Hamilton continues to be outshone, it could lead to uncomfortable dynamics within the team.
As the season progresses to Imola and Monaco, all eyes will be on whether Hamilton can accelerate his integration. Herbert’s comments serve as a wake-up call: for a legend like Hamilton, a difficult start risks defining his Ferrari legacy. Will he rise to the challenge, or will Leclerc’s star continue to eclipse the Briton’s twilight years in F1? Only time—and track time—will tell.
