Ralf Schumacher has asked Lewis Hamilton to introspect after the seven-time Formula 1 World Champion brushed aside his critics saying “they’re not even on my level”.
Hamilton wrapped up his maiden season with Ferrari a disappointing sixth overall in the standings, and without a Grand Prix podium for the first time in his F1 career.
The Briton, who has quite publicly struggled to adapt with the Maranello-based team and its SF-25, was downbeat throughout the 2025 campaign.
Naturally, many questioned his motivation, and most importantly surmised if he was well past the peak of his powers.
The 41-year-old, however, doesn’t have time for his critics – primarily because he doesn’t think they’ve ever achieved what he has in the sport.
“I won’t say anything to them,” Hamilton had responded when asked about the criticism he has received for his dismal season with Ferrari.
“None of them have done what I’ve done. They’re not even on my level.”
Lewis Hamilton urged to ‘self-reflect’ after torrid 2025 F1 season
Chief amongst Hamilton’s detractors was former Williams driver Ralf Schumacher.
The six-time Grand Prix winner, when confronted by Hamilton’s comments, saw them as “interesting”. That said, the German conceded that a little bit of “self-reflection” never did anyone any harm.
“I find his statement interesting that only people who have never been as successful as him criticise him,” Schumacher told Sport1.
“Basically, he’s right – but a little more self-reflection would still do him good.”
The 50-year-old feels vindicated, however, after his prediction about the Briton suffering in 2025 came true.
“Expectations were huge. I received a lot of criticism when I said he wouldn’t be competing for the World Championship and would need time to keep up with Leclerc,” he added.
“That’s exactly how it turned out.”
Schumacher highlighted how Hamilton’s struggles emerge from an acute inability to adapt to the current generation of cars. Going into the 2026 regulations reset, Hamilton might be able to succeed only under certain circumstances.
“The car is becoming more nervous. Leclerc can handle it,” he explained. “Hamilton needs stability at the rear.”
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