Ferrari F1 boss admits Lewis Hamilton 'exaggerates' problems

Formula 1

Ferrari boss admits Lewis Hamilton 'exaggerates' problems

The seven-time champ has struggled in red

Originally written by Kevin McKenna. This version is a translation.

Friday 22 August 2025 21:00

Ferrari F1 boss Fred Vasseur has admitted that his team have to try to separate fact from 'exaggeration' when given feedback by star driver Lewis Hamilton.

The winningest driver in the sport's history moved to the Italian team this winter, but has yet to claim a grand prix podium through 14 races heading into this month's summer break.

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.

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When asked if there was a particular aspect his driver has been struggling with, he 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.

Lewis Hamilton has yet to feature on the podium since making the move to Ferrari

Hamilton hoping for upturn in form after break

Despite Vasseur's support, Hamilton has yet to score a single podium for Ferrari in 14 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 he begins preparation for next weekend's Dutch GP at Zandvoort.

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Lewis Hamilton Ferrari Formula 1 Fred Vasseur