Ex-Ferrari Engineer warns Lewis Hamilton over not being able to ‘beat’ Charles Leclerc
Former Ferrari engineer Rob Smedley believes there will come a point when Lewis Hamilton would struggle to beat Charles Leclerc in F1.
Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton (Via IMAGO)
The 2024 Formula 1 season has been a rollercoaster ride for Lewis Hamilton. Initially, the Mercedes W15 struggled to perform, but midseason upgrades helped Hamilton secure his first victory in two and a half years at Silverstone. He then clinched another win following George Russell’s disqualification in Belgium. However, with six rounds remaining in the season, Hamilton is nearing the end of his tenure at Mercedes and preparing to join Ferrari.
Lewis Hamilton is set to join Ferrari in 2025, partnering with Charles Leclerc. Former Ferrari engineer Rob Smedley doesn’t believe that Hamilton will dominate Leclerc. Smedley described Hamilton as a true professional in Formula 1. He believes the Briton understands just how skilled Leclerc is but still has confidence in his own abilities. However, the 26-year-old, being younger and having been with Ferrari longer, has the advantage of knowing the team dynamics more than the Briton.
Lewis is a true professional. I think he knows how good Charles is, but he will also back himself to beat him over 24 races or whatever it is. I think he will.
Rob Smedley said on Formula for Success Podcast
Despite the situation at the beginning of 2025, Smedley believes there will come a time when Hamilton will struggle to perform at his current level, but that time is not now. The Briton remains fit and mentally strong, thanks to his extensive experience in the sport, which contributes to his ongoing success in Formula 1. However, as the world champion turns 40 next year, his mental and physical condition cannot be guaranteed in the coming years. This may make it difficult for him to match the level of performance Leclerc will put in.
I think there’ll come a point when he won’t be able to do that anymore, but it’s certainly not now. The guy’s so fit, he’s so mentally strong.
Rob Smedley added.
Rob Smedley predicts Lewis Hamilton will quickly integrate himself at Ferrari
Rob Smedley believes that when Lewis Hamilton joins Ferrari in 2025, he won’t assume he can easily beat Charles Leclerc. Smedley thinks the competition will be tough and it won’t be as simple as Hamilton might hope. However, he is confident that the Briton will put in significant effort to succeed. Smedley expects him to work hard to adapt Ferrari’s team dynamics and culture. He believes Hamilton will prioritize building strong team relationships and understanding the car to win races.
I don’t think Lewis is going to go to Ferrari and think that he’s going to be able to trounce Charles, because I don’t think he will be able to, because it just won’t be that easy. But I believe he will work very hard. I think he’ll work very hard. I think he’ll integrate himself into the team.
Rob Smedley stated.
Certainly, It will not be easy for Hamilton to defeat Leclerc at Ferrari. The 26-year-old is in excellent form this year, having won two home races and secured multiple podium finishes. Fans hope that both drivers will work well together on the team and support each other in their racing efforts.
Gaurang Kadam
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