Lewis Hamilton accused of 'exaggerating' problems by Ferrari F1 boss

Ferrari F1 team principal Fred Vasseur believes Lewis Hamilton has the tendency to 'exaggerate' his problems.

The seven-time world champion has endured a miserable maiden campaign at the Scuderia after making the switch from Mercedes during the off-season.

He has failed to find any consistency throughout 2025, and hasn't been shy in expressing his disappointment both with himself and the team.

But in an interview with Auto Motor und Sport, Vasseur has insisted things are not as bad as Hamilton makes out.

When asked if there was a particular aspect his driver has been struggling with, the Frenchman replied: "We solve problems step by step. They're not huge, they just look that way.

"If the braking system isn't quite how the driver would like it to be, then maybe half a tenth is lost.

"From the outside, it's often difficult to quickly identify exactly where that half a tenth is lost.

"Such a minimal time difference can ruin your whole weekend. It can be the difference between Q2 and Q3.

"Lewis sometimes exaggerates the problems he sees in the car. The team then naturally wants to react and everyone jumps on this problem."

Hamilton hoping for upturn in form after F1 break

Despite Vasseur's support, Hamilton has yet to score a single podium for Ferrari in 14 grand prix outings this season, and has cut a dejected figure throughout most of the campaign.

He labelled himself 'useless' following a dismal qualifying session at the Hungarian Grand Prix earlier this month, before suggesting the team would be better off with someone else in the seat.

That sentiment has been shared by a number of high-profile figures within the sport, who have urged him to retire before things get worse.

The 40-year-old has been enjoying some much-needed time away from the F1 spotlight in recent weeks while the sport is on its summer shutdown.

But attention will soon return to the track as the seven-time champion begins preparation for next weekend's Dutch GP at Zandvoort.

F1 HEADLINES: Verstappen stunned by team-mate reveal as Red Bull sacking verdict issued

READ MORE: F1 team change name ahead of Dutch GP

READ MORE: F1 boss admits Lewis Hamilton contract 'problem'

NEWSLETTER: F1's summer break shopping list - Part 1

Related

More F1 news

Latest F1 news

Lewis Hamilton admits 'that wasn't the best version of me' after criticising Ferrari

• Yesterday 22:21

F1 star is set to lose his job and Ferrari and McLaren are in a fight to replace him with 'their guy'

• Yesterday 20:45

Lewis Hamilton opens up on Ferrari 'frustration' after team-mate battle ruins podium chances

• Yesterday 08:59

F1 Monaco Grand Prix result could change AGAIN as Red Bull and McLaren begin courtroom battle

• 3 hours ago

Ferrari flops and Max misery: Five F1 things we learned from the Dutch Grand Prix

• Yesterday 18:59

F1 News Today: Lewis Hamilton backtracks after Ferrari fury - 'that wasn't the best version of me'

• Yesterday 16:30