Why it matters:
Former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya suggests Lewis Hamilton's self-deprecating remarks after qualifying at the Hungarian Grand Prix were a strategic message to Ferrari, not a sign of defeat.
The context:
After failing to make it out of Q2 at the Hungarian GP, Hamilton publicly stated, "It's me, every time. I'm useless, absolutely useless," contrasting himself with teammate Charles Leclerc's strong performance. Many interpreted these comments as dejection or giving up.
Montoya's take:
Montoya, however, believes Hamilton was telling Ferrari, "If you're not going to listen to me, then you might as well take me out and let me go." He argues Hamilton feels Ferrari isn't giving him the attention he needs regarding his desired changes.
The Ferrari challenge:
Montoya highlights Ferrari's rigid, tradition-bound structure and internal politics, contrasting it with Mercedes' results-driven approach. Hamilton's struggle, according to Montoya, is a "wakeup call" for Ferrari to adapt to win.