Hamilton F1 ability questioned as Brundle claims seven-time champion has ‘lost an edge’

Former F1 driver Martin Brundle believes Lewis Hamilton has “lost an edge” ahead of his switch to Ferrari.

The 40-year-old brought an end to his historic partnership with Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season in favour of commencing a new chapter of his career.

Hamilton made his on-track debut with Ferrari earlier this week at the Fiorano Circuit, jumping behind the SF-23 that raced during the 2023 F1 campaign.

The seven-time champion has spent the last several years competing down the pecking order and struggled to match the pace of former team-mate George Russell in 2024.

However, Brundle is confident Hamilton still possesses the ability to contend at the front of the grid for an eighth F1 title.

“At Silverstone last year, he had a chance to win the British Grand Prix and he won it,” Brundle told Sky F1. 

“He won at Spa, which was a little bit lucky because George got disqualified.

“Lewis was extraordinary all through practice in Las Vegas, and then fluffed it in qualifying - he didn't used to do that sort of thing so much - and then was extraordinary again in the race.

“I think the speed is there. Do I think the best of Lewis Hamilton is ahead or behind him? I think it's behind him.

“I think he's lost an edge with age, as you do. Sometimes he gets in scuffles, he used to emerge out in front of [but] he doesn't now, or he'll make a mistake in qualifying.

“But I think 96 per cent, 97 per cent of Lewis Hamilton in a winning car is still good enough.”

Hamilton will be 're-engerised' at Ferrari

Hamilton completed 30 laps at Fiorano earlier this week with more private outings planned in Barcelona before pre-season testing.

Ferrari marks the third team Hamilton will race for in F1 following championship-winning stints at McLaren and Mercedes.

Brundle highlighted Hamilton will find new energy with the team as he goes in hunt of an unprecedented eighth title.

“He’s got all the experience, and as I said, I think his energy, his enthusiasm, [he] will be re-energised by the whole experience,” he said.

“He will not be overwhelmed by driving a Ferrari like so many drivers have been.

“Let’s not forget, despite not being a Ferrari driver, the Italian fans, the Tifosi, they adore him.

“He's going there, and they already adore him. They cheered him even when he was winning in a Mercedes.”