Between 2014 and 2020, Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes ruled Formula 1. In 2021, he had an epic battle with Max Verstappen for the title.
Since then, Verstappen and Red Bull have been unbeatable, while Hamilton has struggled with a slower car. He hasn’t won a race in over two years! His old performance engineer has shared why this is happening.
Why Has Hamilton Been So Up and Down?
In a chat with Motorsport-Total, Phillip Brandle explained why Hamilton has had such a hard time with the new F1 cars. “What sets him apart,” Brandle said, “is that when he thinks he has even a small chance, he drives at 200 percent.”
“But if he feels the car isn’t good enough to win, he doesn’t push as hard. It’s sad because he’s amazing when he sees any chance,” Brandle added.
Fans might think it’s tough seeing their hero struggle so much.
Ratings from races back this up. Before the Spanish Grand Prix, Hamilton never scored above a six. But in Spain, he got his first podium of the season and scored an eight. Since then, his scores have improved to eights, nines, and even tens when he’s driving a competitive car.
Hamilton will leave Mercedes at the end of this season to join Ferrari in 2025. This year, he’s already won two races, making him the only driver besides Verstappen to win multiple times in 2024.
What do you think about Hamilton’s move to Ferrari?
