A Formula One steward has expressed concerns that Lewis Hamilton may already be contemplating retirement following his challenging start at Ferrari.
The seven-time world champion has experienced significant difficulties adapting to his new team since leaving Mercedes.
Derek Warwick, currently serving as a steward, said: "I suspect he's already thinking of stopping" if Hamilton's struggles continue at their current level.
His performances have fallen short of expectations, with the Canadian Grand Prix presenting yet another demanding circuit for the British driver.
Warwick's assessment comes as Hamilton continues to grapple with a Ferrari car that appears unsuited to his driving style.
Derek Warwick cannot understand why Lewis Hamilton can't adapt to his Ferrari
Getty
Warwick expressed bewilderment at Hamilton's ongoing difficulties with the Ferrari. "I don't know why Lewis Hamilton can't get going in a Ferrari. I think that's an enigma," he told Plejmo.
The steward pointed to a brief moment of promise earlier in the season. "In China, when he won the sprint race, I thought that was the turning point, but the car's still not to his liking," Warwick said.
He questioned why a driver of Hamilton's calibre cannot adjust to the machinery. "Most critics will say he's a seven-time World Champion, 105 Grand Prix wins, surely you adapt to the car you've got, because Charles has. But for some reason, he can't get used to it."
Warwick remains sympathetic to Hamilton's plight despite the current struggles. "Do I want Lewis to win races and challenge for the World Championship? Yes. I think he deserves it. I think he deserves that eighth world title," he said.
READ MORE: Lewis Hamilton decision leaves F1 legend 'totally confused' after Michael Schumacher comparison made
Lewis Hamilton has struggled so far at Ferrari Reuters However, the steward was unequivocal about Hamilton's immediate prospects at Ferrari. "It's not going to happen this year," Warwick stated.
His comments reflect a stark reality for Hamilton, who joined Ferrari with hopes of securing a record-breaking eighth championship. Instead, he finds himself battling to match his teammate's pace whilst searching for the form that made him one of Formula One's most successful drivers.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
Warwick suggested that Hamilton may have underestimated the complexities of switching teams after his long tenure at Mercedes. "I think people underestimate, including Lewis, maybe how difficult it is to join a new team," he said.
The steward highlighted the numerous adjustments required when changing teams. "How to get used to their systems, their debriefs, getting them to understand what you want and vice versa," Warwick explained.
Lewis Hamilton has yet to score grand prix podium for Ferrari
ReutersHamilton's transition from Mercedes, where he secured six of his seven championships, to Ferrari has proved far more difficult than many anticipated.
Most Read
