In the wake of another challenging qualifying session at the Hungarian Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton did not hold back in his assessment of the situation. Known for his candid reflections, Hamilton labeled himself as “absolutely useless” following a P12 finish that saw him eliminated in Q2 for the fourth time this season. His frustration boiled over as he suggested that Ferrari might “probably need to change driver,” despite Charles Leclerc’s scintillating lap that secured pole position.
This stark self-criticism from the seven-time World Champion came at a track where he had once clinched his 104th pole position, a memory now distant as he grapples with ongoing struggles. Speaking to Sky Sports, Hamilton’s comments underscored a season marked by turbulence and self-reflection. “It’s just me every time,” he lamented, emphasizing the car’s potential, “Team has no problem, you’ve seen the car’s on pole.”
The trials of the current season have been palpable for Hamilton, who has openly described it as “the most intense” of his career. As he looks forward to the summer break, Hamilton hinted at the emotional toll, saying, “there’ll be some tears,” acknowledging the need to “recharge” and “let go.”
In response to Hamilton’s remarks, Sky F1 pundit Jamie Chadwick was quick to defend the British driver, asserting that the issue was not with Hamilton but perhaps a complex interplay of factors. “He’s definitely not useless,” Chadwick remarked, pointing to Hamilton’s recent trend of self-criticism, particularly in qualifying situations.
The Hungarian Grand Prix qualifying session underscored the unpredictable nature of Formula 1, as Charles Leclerc capitalized on the conditions to seize pole, while Hamilton faced another setback. As the season progresses, the challenge remains for Hamilton to reconcile his struggles with the undeniable potential of his machinery and his storied career.
