Lewis Hamilton makes 'alien' claim as Ferrari problem explained

Lewis Hamilton has explained how the driving style he must use for his Ferrari is "alien" and that he is hopeful for a major Ferrari change.

The seven-time champion has largely struggled at the Scuderia this season, and 16 races, remains without a grand prix podium. 

He has taken a best finish of fourth at Imola, in Austria and at Silverstone, but has been routed by team-mate Charles Leclerc, and is on course for his worst points return in a season since 2009. 

Part of Hamilton's struggles have been his adaptation from 12 years at Mercedes, including Carbon Industrie brakes, whilst Ferrari uses Brembo, with the Scuderia also relying on greater engine braking than Mercedes, something Hamilton had rarely used.

After the struggles of Belgium and Hungary, Hamilton crashed out at Zandvoort, but boss Fred Vasseur felt there was a breakthrough in performance, with Hamilton more upbeat when addressing media, including after his sixth-place at Monza. 

"What is clear for me, and I know I've been driving this car all year long, but in my previous years, I was part of a car which was evolving over time," Hamilton told media, including RacingNews365.

"I was comfortable with it and knew the driving style inside out, and this year I am arriving at the track and having to apply this new driving style, which is still alien and doesn't feel natural to a car, which is how it has to work. 

"Through the race, I am getting better and better and faster and faster and unlocking that and gaining confidence that is not there early on in the weekend. 

"Hopefully, next year, it is not the driving style that is alien to me, and we can go back to what I'm used to."