Following a challenging weekend at the Monaco Grand Prix, Lewis Hamilton has responded to criticism and speculation about his relationship with Ferrari engineer Riccardo Adami.
Hamilton finished the race in fifth place. On the cooldown lap, after initially thanking his team for repairing the car after a practice crash, he was heard asking Adami over the radio, “Are you upset with me or something?” This question received no immediate response.
This radio exchange occurred in the wake of an incident during qualifying where Hamilton received a three-place grid penalty for impeding Max Verstappen. The penalty was a consequence of incorrect information provided by Adami.
Addressing the silence on the radio after the Monaco race, Hamilton clarified that it was simply due to radio communication problems experienced during the Grand Prix, stating he didn`t receive all the necessary information.
After his radio communications with Adami garnered significant attention during the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, the British driver previously described the focus as “over-egged.”
Hamilton maintains there are “no problems” between himself and Adami, who has worked with other Ferrari drivers like Sebastian Vettel and Carlos Sainz in the past.
He dismissed the intense speculation, stating, “There`s a lot of speculation. I mean, most of it`s bullshit. Ultimately, we have a great relationship.”
Describing Adami as “amazing to work with” and “a great guy,” Hamilton acknowledged that despite working very hard together, they “don`t always get it right every weekend” and have disagreements, like in any relationship. However, he stressed that they “work through them” and are “both in it together,” sharing the goal of winning and improving the team`s performance.
He concluded by stating the external speculation is “just all noise” that doesn`t impact the work they are focused on doing.
Hamilton Not Ruling Out 2025 Title Ambition
Despite being 98 points behind championship leader Oscar Piastri after eight rounds and yet to secure a podium finish for Ferrari this season, Hamilton has not completely ruled out being a contender for the title this year.
He mentioned that the team is currently working on the car for next season. Regarding the current championship, he admitted it will be “a lot harder to win” but insisted it is “not closed” and expressed anticipation for upcoming races.
Hamilton also commented on the technical regulation changes concerning flexible wings, which some, including Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, believe could significantly benefit Ferrari.
Hamilton responded to Wolff`s comment by saying he doesn`t know what gives him that impression but hopes he is correct.
He added that the team has “taken a bit of a step” and expressed hope that they can continue the progress made in the last couple of races, particularly in qualifying, in the upcoming weekend.
