Faith in Hamilton’s ability to fix Ferrari, but patience is required

Former Williams deputy principal Claire Williams has expressed confidence in Lewis Hamilton, backing the seven-time champion to eventually succeed at Ferrari despite his disastrous start. Hamilton’s transition has been difficult; after 21 races, he remains without a podium and recently retired from the Sao Paulo Grand Prix due to car damage. Following the race, Hamilton described his childhood dream of joining Ferrari as a “nightmare,” a comment that prompted Chairman John Elkann to bluntly tell his drivers to focus on racing rather than talking.

However, Williams defends Hamilton, arguing that critics underestimate the difficulty of adapting after such a long tenure at Mercedes. She notes that Ferrari’s unique environment requires time for adjustment, even for a veteran of Hamilton's caliber. While Ferrari is currently struggling, Williams believes patience is necessary, asserting that if anyone can turn the situation around ahead of the 2026 regulation changes, it is Hamilton.