Damon Hill: Ferrari Would Be 'Silly' to Ignore Hamilton's Feedback

1996 Formula 1 champion Damon Hill says Ferrari would have been "silly" to ignore Lewis Hamilton after investing heavily in the seven-time champion. Following Hamilton's emotional Barcelona victory, Hill argued the Briton has reshaped Ferrari's machinery to suit his style after struggling with ground effect cars in his final Mercedes years.

Why it matters:

Ferrari needed proof that their massive outlay on an aging star could still deliver wins. By ensuring the SF-26 adapted to Hamilton's needs rather than forcing him to conform, the Scuderia has shown organizational flexibility that could define their championship prospects.

The details:

• Hamilton switched to Carbon Industrie brake discs and pads, hardware he trusted from his Mercedes days, replacing Ferrari's Brembo setup.
• The move proved timely after Charles Leclerc's Monaco crash was attributed to Brembo issues, prompting Leclerc to adopt Hamilton's specification from Barcelona onward.
• Hill emphasized that braking confidence is fundamental to Hamilton's driving. He needs absolute trust in his equipment to brake at the last millisecond and control the car into corners.

What's next:

Hill highlighted Fred Vasseur's role as Hamilton's crucial ally inside Ferrari. Drawing a parallel to Ross Brawn and Michael Schumacher, Hill suggested Vasseur can ensure the team provides clear direction rather than leaving Hamilton isolated under Maranello's intense pressure.