BREAKING NEWS: Hamilton’s…attitude comes under…from Mercedes boss Wolff. Read More
Hamilton’s…attitude comes under…from Mercedes boss Wolff. Read More
Lewis Hamilton’s self-criticism during the Italian Grand Prix weekend has caught the attention of Mercedes boss Toto Wolff, who offered his thoughts on the seven-time World Champion’s negative attitude towards his own performance. Hamilton’s frustration was palpable, especially during qualifying, where he openly expressed his dissatisfaction with his results. He remarked that Mercedes deserved a better performance than what he was able to deliver and even suggested that Andrea Kimi Antonelli, the young Italian driver poised to replace him at Mercedes, might have done a better job.
The Italian Grand Prix, held at the iconic Monza circuit, is always an emotional event for drivers, particularly with the passionate Tifosi fans filling the stands. Although Hamilton has experienced both victory and heartbreak at Monza over the years, this year’s race was particularly tough. Hamilton struggled to find his rhythm during qualifying, and his displeasure was evident. After qualifying, he expressed that he was furious with himself and believed that had he started in a better position on the grid, he could have been in contention to beat a Ferrari.
As Hamilton and Mercedes look ahead to the final stretch of the 2024 season, Wolff took time to assess Hamilton’s attitude and comments. The Mercedes boss acknowledged that Hamilton’s self-reflection is a trait commonly found in champions. “I think the great characteristic of a champion is to first look at himself and say, ‘What did I do wrong?’ And I think that’s what he’s doing,” Wolff explained in a conversation with GPblog and other media outlets. He added, “He’s trying to find where he can improve, what he could have done better, and where the performance was lost.”
Wolff emphasized that despite Hamilton’s critical self-evaluation, the British driver has remained strong and continues to serve as a role model within the team. Hamilton’s leadership has been invaluable not only for his teammate George Russell but also for young talent like Andrea Kimi Antonelli. “He’s been very strong and was a role model for George and even for Kimi,” Wolff noted. “It’s something that is important for the team. But the greatest of all time are very critical,” he added, underscoring that this self-critical approach is a hallmark of the greatest athletes.
Hamilton and Wolff’s partnership has been one of the most successful in Formula 1 history, delivering multiple championships and dominating the sport for much of the past decade. However, their collaboration is set to conclude at the end of the 2024 season, with Hamilton’s highly anticipated move to Ferrari for the 2025 campaign. In his new role at Ferrari, Hamilton will join Charles Leclerc, who recently secured victory at Monza, much to the delight of the home crowd.
With just eight Grand Prix weekends remaining in their partnership, Hamilton and Wolff are focused on finishing the season strong. The transition to Ferrari will mark a new chapter in Hamilton’s illustrious career, but until then, he remains committed to giving his best for Mercedes, even as he navigates his own frustrations and expectations.
As the season draws to a close, Hamilton’s self-reflection and relentless pursuit of improvement will be key in his quest for more success. Wolff’s comments highlight the balance between Hamilton’s critical mindset and his undeniable strength as a leader within the team. While his future may lie with Ferrari, Hamilton’s legacy at Mercedes is secure, built on years of excellence, determination, and a constant drive to push the limits of what is possible in Formula 1.