Miami, May 5, 2025 – The scorching streets of Miami delivered drama once again — but not the kind Lewis Hamilton had hoped for. The seven-time world champion finished a frustrating P8 in the 2025 Miami Grand Prix, and he made no effort to hide his displeasure with Ferrari’s race strategy.
“We had the pace. I could’ve fought for top 5,” Hamilton told Sky Sports. “But the early stop and lack of real-time data killed us. I don’t understand the decision-making process today.”
Hamilton’s frustration was palpable, especially after an impressive qualifying session that saw him start P4 on the grid. But Ferrari’s call to pit him on Lap 12 — while rivals extended their stints — forced him into heavy midfield traffic with fading tires.
A Familiar Theme of Strategic Chaos
This isn’t the first time Hamilton has criticized team strategy this season. In Melbourne and Jeddah, he also questioned Ferrari’s timing and lack of adaptability. In Miami, the issue was compounded by poor in-race communication, with Hamilton repeatedly asking for updates over the radio and receiving vague or delayed responses.
Ferrari team principal Frédéric Vasseur acknowledged the miscalculation in the post-race briefing: “We thought the undercut was the best move, but the tire drop-off surprised us. Lewis was left exposed.”
Teammate Contrast and Media Reaction
Charles Leclerc, in the other Ferrari, finished P5 after a more conservative strategy. The disparity didn’t go unnoticed by pundits and fans, with some suggesting that Leclerc continues to be favored inside the garage.
“Hamilton’s move to Ferrari was supposed to be the final chapter of his legacy,” wrote F1 commentator Natalie Pinkham. “Instead, it’s turning into a test of patience.”
Social media exploded with #HamiltonFrustrated, #FerrariFail and even calls for a mid-season staff shakeup at Ferrari.
What It Means Going Forward
Hamilton now sits 6th in the driver standings with 47 points — already 52 behind leader Oscar Piastri. While it’s too early to rule him out completely, the uphill battle is undeniable.
With Imola up next, pressure is mounting. Ferrari will need to regroup fast to keep Hamilton in contention and avoid further damage to team morale.
