Hamilton describes his Ferrari: “Emotional Rollercoaster”

Hamilton describes his time at Ferrari as an “emotional rollercoaster”

The renowned driver Lewis Hamilton has shared his impressions of his first season at Ferrari, calling it an “emotional rollercoaster.” The seven-time world champion left Mercedes to join Ferrari this year, and although he has experienced some challenges, he is optimistic about the future. Hamilton, who has had a sprint race victory in China, but has yet to achieve podium finishes in the grand prix, prepares for his first Italian Grand Prix in Monza as a Ferrari driver. However, he will face a five-place grid penalty due to a yellow flag infringement in Zandvoort. Despite setbacks, including a qualifying session in Hungary where he called himself “useless”, Hamilton believes that both he and Ferrari are starting to make progress. “It’s been an emotional rollercoaster,” Hamilton commented in Monza, when asked about how he has handled emotions in his first year.

Did I expect it to be so volatile in terms of feeling? No, but that’s life.

Lewis Hamilton

The driver also expressed his desire to enjoy every present moment, acknowledging that the first half of the season has passed quickly. “I’m trying not to worry about tomorrow. I’m trying to be present and enjoy every moment,” he added. Hamilton recalled his childhood, when he watched Michael Schumacher win at Monza, and now he is preparing to experience that as a Ferrari driver. “I want to give them absolutely everything this weekend to get the best result for them,” he stated, referring to the passionate Ferrari fans.

After 12 years at Mercedes, Hamilton has noticed the differences between both teams and admitted that both he and Ferrari underestimated the challenge of joining. “There was a lot of adaptation, both on my part and on the part of my team and Ferrari,” he explained. Hamilton also mentioned the cultural differences and the problems they have faced with the car. “Honestly, I think the more difficult it is, the better it makes you,” he said, showing his optimism. “I think this year has been tough for everyone within the team, but I think it really prepares us for better days.”

Tribute to Niki Lauda

Ferrari will use a special livery this weekend to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Niki Lauda’s first world title with the team in 1975. Hamilton, who worked with Lauda at Mercedes, will also carry the Austrian’s name on his helmet. When talking about his friend, who passed away in 2019, Hamilton commented that he often thinks about the advice Lauda would give him at Ferrari. “His legacy lives on and I know what he would tell me today,” he stated. Hamilton remembered Lauda’s words, who used to tell him: “Give it gas”, but always using a stronger expression. “He was a fighter”, Hamilton concluded.