As he begins his Ferrari career at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton insists he feels no pressure to prove himself.
The seven-time champion departed the company after 12 seasons in which Mercedes became the most successful team-driver combination in Formula 1 history. The 40-year-old Briton has only won two races since the 2022 season began, despite winning six of his drivers’ titles from 2014 to 2020.
In Melbourne, Hamilton stated: “I don’t think it will be simple. I’m not under any pressure. For me, there is no external pressure. The pressure comes from my goals and myself.
“My purpose is not to prove anything to anyone. It is something I have repeatedly done. For myself, my family, and our team, which I firmly think deserves victory, I want to perform to the best of my abilities because I know what it takes to do so.
“They may not have achieved as much success as they would like and deserve, but they are incredibly motivated. Wish to strive for it and help achieve it.”
Lewis Hamilton did not feel the pressure ahead of Ferrari’s debut.
Hamilton says that the competition between Ferrari, McLaren, Red Bull, and Mercedes appears to be tightly contested this season. Hamilton mentioned he’s still adapting to Ferrari’s team dynamics and the new car, emphasising the need to focus on delivering his best performance.
I am still learning this new car, which differs from what I have driven throughout my career,” Hamilton said.
“After my entire Mercedes career, Ferrari Power has a distinct feel and vibration.
“There will always be a transition period and a foundation that needs to be established, but the sooner you can perform at a higher level, the better. Relationships and mutual trust. While respect is granted, trust must be developed over time.
“I have had some not-so-spectacular years and am trying to make sure I have a better one, but there will be many factors going into that.”
