Lewis Hamilton did not come to the Scuderia Ferrari to settle for podium finishes. At the age of 40, the seven-time world champion has just one thing on his mind: an eighth title, this time in red. And to get there, he doesn't just drive. He acts, he writes, he proposes. Like we reported on July 24He has already sent several strategic documents to the Scuderia. But now their contents have leaked to the Italian press.
Documents with a direct tone
According to revelations, Hamilton delivered precise analyses of the Ferrari SF-25, highlighting the critical areas to be corrected. One point that came up again and again was engine braking. Too aggressive in his eyes, far from what he was used to with Mercedes, the system disrupted his braking feel and unbalanced corner entry (he had already compared Ferrari and Mercedes engines after his first tests with the Scuderia). Ferrari has already tried to soften the mapping, but for Hamilton, the problem remains.
The Briton went further: he requested information on the future 2026 powertrain, to ensure that this weakness would be corrected under the new regulations. Privately, he even described the SF-25's braking as "alien". A strong word, reflecting the extent of his frustration.
Driving style difficult to accommodate
The documents also highlight handling difficulties. The new front suspension gives the car great precision, but makes it unstable in technical sections. To compensate, Hamilton opted for a very heavy front suspension set-up. The result: more grip, but hypersensitive steering.
On the simulator, he tried to explore other options. To no avail. Ferrari deliberately limits the number of configurations available. This annoyed Hamilton, who demanded more freedom, even if it meant designing new parts. His approach: mix different settings, sometimes to the detriment of overall balance.
Hamilton and Leclerc, two very different styles
Another revelation: the stylistic differences between Hamilton and Charles Leclerc complicate Ferrari's task. Where the Monegasque prefers a more oversteerable car, Hamilton is looking for rear stability. The team thought their preferences would converge, but in the end, they diverge.
Already looking ahead to 2026
What's striking is that Hamilton isn't just talking about the present. His notes already touch on the development of the Ferrari 2026. He wants a single-seater capable of integrating his expectations while reconciling Leclerc's needs. In short, he's thinking long-term.
Former Mercedes team-mate Nico Rosberg summed it up: "He's a seven-time world champion. You absolutely have to listen to what he says. But we mustn't believe that it can be settled in a few weeks."
If Hamilton is so demanding, it's because he refuses to go down in history like Fernando Alonso or Sebastian Vettel, two champions who came to Maranello with the hope of a title... but never achieved it. He made it clear in July: he doesn't want to follow the same path.
Today, with these documents, one thing is certain: Hamilton pushes Ferrari to the limit. He questions, criticizes, proposes. But he doesn't give up. And if the Scuderia succeeds in transforming his recommendations into real progress, then his crazy gamble of winning an eighth title with Ferrari could one day become a reality.
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The last person to dare criticize the scuderia was Alain Prost. He was sacked the following year.
No, no, no! At the time, Prost publicly called his Ferrari a truck! It was a very negative public criticism! Here, Hamilton is making proposals and his criticism seems positive to me! Before writing anything, you need to analyze both situations, and what you're saying isn't right!