Lewis Hamilton finds encouragement from Ferrari legend Rubens Barrichello during debut season struggles
Lewis Hamilton’s first season with Scuderia Ferrari has not been without its challenges. The seven-time Formula 1 world champion has faced a series of difficulties on and off the track, but in recent days he has received an uplifting message from a supporter who knows very well what it means to drive for the Maranello team: former Ferrari driver Rubens Barrichello.
After the summer break, Formula 1 is preparing to return to action with the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort. The build-up to the weekend is filled with anticipation, especially for Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton, who will be eager to bounce back following a disappointing Hungarian Grand Prix. At the Hungaroring, Lewis Hamilton’s frustrations were made clear when he openly described himself as “useless” after a tough qualifying session, a comment that raised concern among fans and observers.
Ferrari’s backing and Vasseur’s support
Throughout the season, Ferrari has consistently shown its trust and belief in Lewis Hamilton. Team principal Frédéric Vasseur has repeatedly defended the British driver, making it clear that the team is standing firmly behind him during this difficult adaptation phase. The combination of high expectations and the unique pressure that comes with driving for Ferrari has made Hamilton’s debut season particularly intense.
Barrichello steps in with words of encouragement
In an interview with Mirror Sport, Rubens Barrichello – remembered fondly as one of Ferrari’s most loyal drivers during his time with the Scuderia – voiced his strong support for Lewis Hamilton. Barrichello raced for Ferrari between 2000 and 2005, partnering with Michael Schumacher during one of the most dominant eras in Formula 1 history, and he understands better than most the enormous weight of expectation that comes with driving for the team from Maranello.
Rubens Barrichello responded directly to Lewis Hamilton’s self-critical comments in Hungary, saying that for him the seven-time world champion is far from “useless.” On the contrary, the Brazilian legend made it clear that Hamilton remains an extraordinary driver, fully deserving of everything he has achieved throughout his career. He stressed: “He is a super driver who deserves everything he has won in the past. It’s not as if he has suddenly forgotten how to drive.”
Looking ahead, Barrichello expressed confidence that the new set of regulations, which will come into force in the 2026 season, could be a turning point not just for Ferrari but also for Hamilton’s journey with the team. According to the former Formula 1 driver, if Ferrari can deliver a competitive car under the upcoming rules, Hamilton will undoubtedly return to the top step of the podium. Barrichello even went as far as to say he was “absolutely sure” that Hamilton will be capable of winning again once given the right machinery.
A message of confidence for Hamilton’s Ferrari chapter
These encouraging words from Rubens Barrichello carry significant weight, as they come from someone who personally lived through the highs and lows of representing Ferrari at the highest level. His message is also a reminder that, despite the difficult start, Lewis Hamilton’s class, talent, and determination remain unquestionable. For Ferrari fans, it serves as reassurance that with time and the right car development, the Briton can still play a central role in bringing glory back to Maranello.
As Formula 1 heads into the second half of the 2025 season, the spotlight will remain firmly on Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton. Both the team and its star driver will be determined to show progress on the track, starting with the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort. And with the backing of figures like Rubens Barrichello, Hamilton can count on the continued belief of those who know best what it takes to succeed in Ferrari red.
Leave a Reply