JUST IN: Wolff denies Ferrari theory behind Hamilton F1 slu...read..

Wolff denies Ferrari theory behind Hamilton F1 slump

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has strongly refuted claims that Lewis Hamilton’s performance dip in the 2024 Formula 1 season was influenced by his anticipated move to Ferrari. While Hamilton announced his decision to leave Mercedes for Ferrari before the start of the season, Wolff emphasized that the seven-time world champion’s challenges on the track were not related to his impending switch. Instead, Wolff pointed to the complexities of the current generation of F1 cars as the main factor behind Hamilton’s difficulties.

Throughout the 2024 season, Hamilton struggled to consistently deliver the level of performance he is known for, leading some to speculate that his focus might have shifted towards his future with Ferrari. However, Wolff quickly shot down these theories, insisting that Hamilton’s professionalism remained intact, and his form was not a result of distractions caused by the upcoming team change.

Car Characteristics a Key Factor

Wolff attributed Hamilton’s 2024 struggles to the characteristics of the current F1 cars, which did not align well with the Briton’s natural driving style. Specifically, Wolff explained that Hamilton’s aggressive approach to braking and cornering often clashed with the way the new generation of cars and tires performed. The issue, according to Wolff, was particularly evident in qualifying sessions, where Hamilton’s late braking and sharp turning put extra stress on the car and tires, resulting in less-than-ideal performance.

“This generation of car doesn’t suit Lewis. He brakes late and turns the car aggressively into the corners. The car and the tires sometimes don’t forgive that. This is more noticeable in qualifying than in the race,” Wolff stated, offering insight into why Hamilton struggled to extract the best from his car, especially over a single lap in qualifying.

Wolff’s comments highlight the unique challenge posed by the current generation of F1 cars, which demand a more delicate approach to handling, particularly when it comes to tire management. For a driver like Hamilton, whose success has often been built on a dynamic and aggressive driving style, adapting to these new requirements has proven to be a challenge.

Rejects Ferrari Focus Theory

Despite rumors circulating that Hamilton’s mind may have already been on his future at Ferrari during the 2024 season, Wolff strongly dismissed the idea. The Mercedes boss insisted that Hamilton’s professionalism and dedication to his craft meant that he remained fully focused on his responsibilities with Mercedes throughout the year, despite the looming team change.

“There may have been other influencing factors as well. I don’t think his head was in his new team yet. Lewis is too professional for that,” Wolff stated, rejecting any notion that Hamilton’s performance was impacted by external distractions.

Instead, Wolff maintained that Hamilton’s form was purely a result of the challenges posed by the car, adding that other factors such as tire degradation and the evolving nature of the sport likely played a role in his struggles. Nevertheless, Wolff made it clear that Hamilton’s commitment to Mercedes was unwavering, even as his departure approached.

Clarifies ‘Cognitive Sharpness’ Comments

Earlier in the year, Wolff stirred controversy when he made comments regarding “cognitive sharpness” in F1, which some interpreted as a reference to Hamilton’s ability to maintain peak performance as he ages. However, Wolff later clarified that his remarks had been taken out of context and reaffirmed his belief in Hamilton’s longevity in the sport.

Wolff reiterated that cognitive decline is something that affects all individuals with age, but he believes that top-level athletes like Hamilton can delay the impact due to their intense focus and dedication to their craft. He drew a comparison with Fernando Alonso, another experienced driver who has continued to compete at a high level despite his age.

“That [cognitive decline] affects us all. But I believe that a top athlete like Lewis, who is fully focused on one thing, can put it off for a long time. You can see it best in Fernando [Alonso]. With all his experience, he still drives a fast car. It’s similar with Lewis,” Wolff explained.

In conclusion, Wolff firmly stands by Hamilton’s professionalism and ability, dismissing any suggestion that his form in 2024 was linked to his impending move to Ferrari. Instead, he believes that the current car dynamics were a bigger factor in Hamilton’s performance, and he remains confident in Hamilton’s potential as the driver embarks on a new chapter with Ferrari.