In a recent interview, the former head of Formula 1 shared his thoughts on why some people have a negative view of Lewis Hamilton, one of the sport’s most successful and high-profile drivers. According to him, Hamilton is not as talented as many people believe, and this opinion has contributed to a certain level of animosity towards the British driver.

While Hamilton’s career achievements are undeniable—he has won multiple World Championships and broken numerous records—there is a segment of fans and experts who feel that his success is more a result of the superior machinery provided by Mercedes rather than his own innate driving ability.

The former F1 boss, who spoke candidly about the issue, stated that while Hamilton has certainly been dominant in recent seasons, it’s important to acknowledge the role that the car plays in achieving those results. “Lewis is a fantastic driver, but his dominance can be attributed largely to the incredible performance of the Mercedes car,” he explained. “He has had one of the best cars on the grid for years, and many believe that with a different car, his results might not be as impressive.”

This opinion has raised eyebrows, especially given Hamilton’s remarkable consistency and ability to extract the maximum from any car he drives. However, detractors argue that Hamilton has been fortunate to race for Mercedes during a period of unprecedented success, particularly with the introduction of hybrid engines in 2014, which helped the team dominate the sport.

The criticism also touches on the broader issue of perception in Formula 1, where some drivers are viewed as “overhyped” or “protected” due to the teams they drive for. In Hamilton’s case, his association with Mercedes has led some to argue that he has benefitted from the team’s resources more than his competitors, such as Sebastian Vettel or Fernando Alonso, who have not had such an advantage in recent years.

Furthermore, Hamilton’s outspoken activism on social issues, including his advocacy for racial equality, environmentalism, and animal rights, has earned him both admiration and criticism. While many fans admire his efforts off the track, some view his advocacy as a distraction from his racing career, contributing to a division between Hamilton and certain segments of the F1 fanbase.

Despite these criticisms, Hamilton remains one of the most accomplished drivers in the history of Formula 1. He has broken records, including matching Michael Schumacher’s seven World Championships, and continues to be a major figure in the sport. However, the conversation surrounding his legacy is far from settled, and as the former F1 boss pointed out, the debate over his talent and the reasons behind his success will likely continue for years to come.

In the end, while some may doubt Hamilton’s abilities, his achievements on the track speak for themselves. Whether you view him as a product of a dominant car or a once-in-a-generation talent, there’s no denying that he has left an indelible mark on Formula 1 history.