Angela Cullen, a key figure in the world of Formula 1, recently made a bold statement that shook the world of motorsports. After Lewis Hamilton’s disappointment at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Cullen publicly revealed the reasons why she left Ferrari after working with the seven-time world champion. Her decision surprised many, especially since the bond between Cullen and Hamilton seemed solid and strong, but recent events have led them to go their separate ways.
During the interview, Angela Cullen explained the personal and professional reasons that led her to leave the Maranello team. “The difficulties Lewis encountered at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix were the result of the accumulation of a series of factors that could no longer be ignored,” Cullen said. Ferrari was unable to provide him with the right car to express his talent. In a team like Ferrari, where the pressure is always high, there is no room for uncertainty, and Lewis has experienced this at every stage of his career with the team.
Hamilton, who moved from Mercedes to Ferrari with great expectations, had a difficult start to the season. Not only did he struggle to achieve the results he expected, but he also had problems with the car, which did not seem to live up to his expectations and the level he wanted to reach. After the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, where Hamilton finished behind teammate Charles Leclerc, the atmosphere within the team became increasingly tense.
Cullen admitted that the decision to leave Ferrari was not an easy one, but that he felt it was a necessary step for his professional well-being. “It’s not just the race results that make the difference, but also the way a driver feels within the team. The culture he lives in and the support he receives are crucial. If that’s missing, it’s difficult to stay motivated,” he explained. “I never doubted that Lewis was an exceptional driver, but his mood began to change. I could see his frustration growing and that influenced my decision to leave.
Unfortunately, Ferrari struggled to provide Hamilton with a competitive car and the decline in performance had repercussions not only on the driver, but also on the team that supported him. Cullen added that the team failed to provide him with the support he needed at a crucial time in Hamilton’s career. It was clear that Hamilton had not gotten what he deserved. Ferrari had not kept the promises they had made to Lewis. It is difficult to work in these conditions and I also felt that my role no longer corresponded to what I wanted to do professionally.
His decision has drawn mixed reactions from Formula 1 fans and pundits. Some have argued that Cullen was trying to defend Hamilton and his decisions, while others have argued that his resignation was due to deeper differences with Ferrari management. Cullen’s comments have only added to the doubts about the internal dynamics of the team, already under scrutiny due to Hamilton’s poor performances.
The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was particularly difficult for Hamilton, who finished the race far from the top of the standings, while Leclerc continued to dominate the team. There have already been rumours of a possible return for Hamilton to Mercedes, but for now the focus is on his next steps and the support he will receive from his closest collaborators. However, Cullen is no longer part of this team and his absence will be felt.
In short, Angela Cullen’s departure from Ferrari marks a significant turning point in Hamilton’s season. The driver’s difficulties with the car and the resulting frustration have had a clear impact on his team as well. Cullen’s decision to make the move was motivated by a desire to align her career path with her personal values. However, her departure raises questions about the challenges that lie ahead for Hamilton and Ferrari in their quest to remain competitive. It will be interesting to see how the team responds to this season’s difficulties and whether they can return to the track in time for the next races.
