Mercedes Team Principal Toto Wolff has spoken candidly about the struggles Lewis Hamilton has faced during what is shaping up to be a turbulent final season with the team. Hamilton, who made the surprise announcement earlier this year that he would join Ferrari in 2025, has experienced a rollercoaster year with highs, such as a thrilling victory at Silverstone, and lows, including early exits from qualifying sessions. As Mercedes’ rivals have made significant strides, the Brackley-based team has found it challenging to extract consistent performance from the W15 car, particularly grappling with issues like extreme understeer, notably at tracks such as Qatar.
Hamilton’s race at the Lusail International Circuit in Qatar exemplified his difficult season, as he endured a five-second penalty for a false start, a puncture, and a drive-through penalty for speeding in the pit lane. Meanwhile, his teammate George Russell has had a far more successful campaign, securing podium finishes and demonstrating a strong pace, even challenging for pole positions while Hamilton struggled to find similar speed.
Wolff provided insight into why Hamilton has faced such difficulties, explaining that one of Hamilton’s strengths is his ability to brake late and attack corners, but the W15’s lack of grip and the car’s behavior on certain days made it challenging for him. “That phenomenon is even more articulated and makes it even worse for him, and for George also,” Wolff added. Despite the tough season, Wolff remained optimistic, emphasizing that nothing could overshadow the team’s success over the past 12 years, which included eight Constructors’ Championships and six Drivers’ Championships.
As the season draws to a close with the final race in Abu Dhabi, Wolff expressed his desire to end on a high note, acknowledging that while the difficult moments of the season would eventually fade, the lasting memories would be of their incredible partnership. Hamilton, who has earned five podiums this season, including victories in Belgium and Great Britain, will make his final appearance for Mercedes before moving to Ferrari next year, leaving behind a remarkable legacy with the team.
