Former Ferrari performance engineer Jock Clear has provided insights into Lewis Hamilton’s transition from Mercedes to Ferrari. He believes a quick title win by Hamilton would undermine the integrity of Formula 1. After leaving Mercedes, Hamilton faced a challenging inaugural season with Ferrari.
Hamilton’s Transition to Ferrari
Lewis Hamilton ended his notable stint with Mercedes and joined Ferrari last year. His first season with the Italian team proved difficult, as he did not secure a podium finish—marking the first time in his career this has occurred. Hamilton himself described the 2025 season as the toughest of his career.
The Challenges Faced
- Transitioning to a new team often presents challenges.
- Hamilton’s performance was not up to his usual high standards.
- Frustration was evident for Hamilton as he adapted to his new environment.
Clear emphasized that expecting immediate results from Hamilton was unrealistic. He highlighted how it takes time to adapt to a new team and car. “It doesn’t happen overnight,” Clear noted, acknowledging that Hamilton was under significant pressure during his first year at Ferrari.
Looking Ahead
Hamilton is currently pursuing a record-breaking eighth Formula 1 title. Reflecting on the future, Clear is optimistic about Hamilton’s potential. He believes that with time and recovery during the winter break, Hamilton will return as a stronger competitor in the upcoming 2026 season.
Clear’s Confidence in Hamilton
Clear stated, “Lewis is not going to give up just because 2025 was tough.” He anticipates that Hamilton will work diligently on development as he aims to excel with Ferrari.
Overall, while the transition has been tough, both Clear and Hamilton understand the complexities of Formula 1 racing. They recognize the importance of resilience and the need for time to achieve success in such a highly competitive environment.
