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Former F1 racer Ralf Schumacher has offered advice to Lewis Hamilton after the Briton's tough last season with Ferrari in 2025. The German said that Hamilton's achievement gave him the immunity to defend himself against the criticism.
Tough debut year for Hamilton with Ferrari
Hamilton had a tough debut year with Ferrari, struggling to compete at the front and finishing behind teammate Charles Leclerc in the drivers' standings. The seven-time world champion also failed to claim a single podium finish across the full season.
Hamilton's harsh reaction towards criticism
Towards the end of the 2025 season, Hamilton had reacted strongly to criticism of his performances, saying that those slamming him had not achieved what he had in the sport.
"I won’t say anything to them. None of them have done what I’ve done. They’re not even on my level," Hamilton said at the time.
Ralff Schumacher acknowledged those statements while reflecting on Hamilton's season:
"I find his statement interesting that only people who have never been as successful as him criticise him," Schumacher said. [via PlanetF1]
"Basically, he’s right, but a little more self-reflection would still do him good," he added.
Hamilton will look for a fresh start
Going into the 2026 season, Hamilton will be aiming for a new start under new regulations, as he sees the back of the ground effect era. The 41-year-old will be looking to turn his fortunes as he is entering the final year of his deal with Ferrari this season.
Ralf Schumacher reflects on Lewis Hamilton's disappointing 2025 season
Ralf Schumacher has revealed that he predicted Lewis Hamilton to have a difficult season with Ferrari in 2025. He then claimed that it was always going to be hard to compete with Charles Leclerc, who is more habitual with the car.
Speaking about the driver's struggles in 2025, Schumacher said:
"Expectations were huge. I received a lot of criticism when I said he wouldn't be competing for the World Championship and would need time to keep up with Leclerc. That's exactly how it turned out."
"The car is becoming more nervous. Leclerc can handle it, Hamilton needs stability at the rear," he added.
Lewis Hamilton finished sixth in the drivers' standings in 2025 with 86 points behind Charles Leclerc. On the other hand, Leclerc managed to secure seven podiums during Hamilton's struggles.
Hamilton managed to drop the best result for Ferrari in 2025, as he secured a sprint race win at the Chinese Grand Prix.
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