“From Amazing to Annoying”: Italian Media Sound Alarm on Hamilton–Ferrari Pairing
What began as one of the most highly anticipated partnerships in Formula 1 history is now facing severe scrutiny. Lewis Hamilton’s first season with Ferrari has drawn sharp criticism from the Italian press — with some headlines calling the move “a full crisis” and describing the seven-time world champion as “an opaque star.”
Hamilton, who swapped silver for scarlet in a shock move last year, is yet to deliver the results Ferrari fans dreamed of. And after a frustrating Spanish Grand Prix, the media back home aren’t holding back.
🇮🇹 Italian Media: From Hero to Headache?
Respected Italian outlets were particularly harsh following Hamilton’s sixth-place finish in Barcelona. One headline from Corriere dello Sport read:
“From amazing to annoying — Ferrari’s new dream has become a disturbed memory.”
Hamilton was outpaced by Charles Leclerc, obeyed team orders to let him through, and even lost a place to Sauber’s Nico Hülkenberg — a gut punch for Tifosi watching at home.
📉 Stats Tell the Story
| Race | Hamilton’s Finish | Leclerc’s Finish |
|---|---|---|
| Spain | P6 | P3 |
| Miami | P5 | P4 |
| Imola | P7 | P5 |
- Hamilton is currently 5th in the standings with 98 points, trailing Leclerc’s 120.
- He has 0 wins, 0 podiums, and a growing list of missed opportunities.
🗣️ Sainz Chimes In: “Even Champions Struggle”
Carlos Sainz, the very driver Hamilton replaced, had his say:
–
“Now that a seven-time world champion is finding it difficult to adapt… maybe people will understand it wasn’t just me.”
– Carlos Sainz, via Cadena SER
It’s a fair point. Ferrari’s SF-25 is a complex machine, and even the sport’s greatest driver needs time to fully integrate. But patience is running thin — especially in Italy, where passion meets pressure every race weekend.
🔧 Ferrari Stays Supportive — For Now
Team Principal Fred Vasseur insists the team backs Hamilton. He’s pointed to setup changes and reliability woes rather than driver error. However, insiders suggest the team is already split between building around Leclerc versus reshaping for Lewis.
Ferrari, meanwhile, has slipped behind McLaren in both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ battles.
🇨🇦 Canadian GP: The Turning Point?
This weekend in Montreal could be decisive. Hamilton needs more than just points — he needs a statement drive. A podium — or better yet, a victory — could silence critics and reset the narrative. Another lackluster performance, though, may only deepen doubts.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Ferrari and Hamilton were meant to be a match made in motorsport heaven. Right now, it’s more of a marriage on the rocks. The next few races may not only shape this season but define the legacy of one of F1’s most iconic names in red.
