In a season filled with highs and lows, seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton has been labeled the “biggest disappointment” of 2024. Former F1 driver David Coulthard delivered this blunt assessment, sparking widespread debate among fans and analysts alike.
Coulthard Questions Hamilton’s Declining Form
Hamilton’s final season with Mercedes before his highly-anticipated move to Ferrari in 2025 was anything but smooth. Despite ending a winless streak with a triumphant victory at Silverstone, Hamilton struggled to match the pace of his younger teammate George Russell, losing the qualifying head-to-head battle 19-5.
Coulthard, a 13-time grand prix winner, highlighted these struggles in an interview with Viaplay, stating:
“I would still point to Lewis as the biggest disappointment. I know that’s controversial as he’s a seven-time World Champion and a real winning machine, but I’ve never seen this Lewis in Formula 1.”
Hamilton’s Admission of Self-Doubt
Hamilton himself fueled concerns, admitting after a dismal showing in Qatar, “I’m definitely not fast anymore.” Such remarks raised eyebrows, especially from a driver who has dominated F1 for over a decade. Hamilton even hinted at retirement following the Brazilian Grand Prix, signaling deeper frustrations with his performance.
Ferrari’s Gamble: Will Hamilton Deliver?
Ferrari’s decision to sign Hamilton was met with excitement, and the announcement caused the team’s stock prices to surge. However, Coulthard warned that financial gains do not guarantee on-track success.
“The stopwatch doesn’t lie and at the moment it just doesn’t deliver in terms of lap times,” Coulthard said.
Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur remains optimistic, emphasizing Hamilton’s racecraft over qualifying struggles. Pointing to Hamilton’s strong recovery drives, including a P4 finish in Abu Dhabi after a Q1 exit, Vasseur said:
“We are well placed to know that it’s on Sunday that you are scoring points.”
A Fresh Start or a Final Decline?
Coulthard compared Hamilton’s Ferrari move to Superman donning his cape, suggesting the change could rejuvenate his career. However, the burden of proof lies squarely on Hamilton’s shoulders as he transitions to Ferrari.
Final Thoughts
While Hamilton’s legacy as one of F1’s greatest drivers is undisputed, his 2024 struggles have left fans questioning whether his dominance is truly over. With the clock ticking toward his Ferrari debut, the world will be watching closely to see if Hamilton can silence his critics and reclaim his place at the top.
Stay tuned as the drama unfolds in what promises to be one of the most talked-about moves in F1 history!