Former Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto has weighed in on the disappointing start to Lewis Hamilton‘s debut season with Ferrari. The tifosi, in particular, had hoped that the Brit’s arrival would translate into the long-awaited world title for the Italian racing team. However, aside from success in the sprint races, Hamilton has so far been outperformed by his younger teammate Charles Leclerc. ‘Ferrari hired him too late,’ is Binotto’s verdict.
After nine races in Ferrari red, Lewis Hamilton is still waiting for his first podium finish in a main race. Despite success in the sprint races, the seven-time world champion’s first season with Scuderia has been a letdown. Teammate Charles Leclerc, on the other hand, has already made it to the podium three times. Former Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto believes that Hamilton’s age may be playing a role in the disappointing start to the season.
Age
“Hamilton is of a certain age,” the current Sauber boss explains to Automoto.it. “Ferrari hired him when he was already at the end of his career. It would have been ideal if we had had him a few years earlier.” According to the Italian, Hamilton’s age, 40, affects the Brit’s adaptability. The seven-time world champion underscored this earlier by stating he would need a ‘brain transplant’ to understand the SF-25.
“It’s clear that the performances on the track and the results are currently not good,” the former Ferrari team boss continues. However, Binotto continues to support his old racing team. “But I know every member of that team very well and I know they are good, strong, and capable. They will be able to improve the car and perform well in the future. And I believe that Ferrari will be satisfied this year.”
