Hamilton Defends F1's Young Talent Amidst Criticism From 'Older Guys'
Lewis Hamilton is vocally defending Formula 1's emerging young drivers, including Kimi Antonelli and Oliver Bearman, from criticism by 'older guys' whom he suggests lacked significant achievements. Drawing on his own F1 debut experience, Hamilton highlighted the immense pressure from complex cars, social media, and media scrutiny that today's rookies face. He pledged long-term support for the youth, urging them to keep their heads down and praised Franco Colapinto as a rising star, emphasizing the need for positive encouragement over unearned negativity.
Lewis Hamilton is publicly backing Formula 1's emerging young drivers, pledging his support for their careers now and in the future. He's also taking aim at veteran critics he believes are unfairly disparaging the sport's newest generation of talent.
Why it matters:
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton's vocal support for young drivers like Kimi Antonelli, Gabriel Bortoleto, and Oliver Bearman isn't just a gesture of solidarity; it's a direct challenge to what he perceives as a cynical old guard. His stance underscores the immense pressure new talent faces in F1 and highlights a generational divide in how the sport's future is viewed. A supportive environment from established stars can be crucial for these young careers, shaping the sport's landscape for years to come.
The details:
- Recalling His Own Start: Hamilton reflected on his own F1 debut in 2007, acknowledging the "amazing experience" but also the gap between preconceived notions and the reality of the sport.
- Modern Challenges: He emphasized that today's young drivers face unprecedented pressures, including the complexity of current F1 cars, intense social media scrutiny, and a constant barrage of media questions. Hamilton believes the environment has become "hugely high" pressure for newcomers.
- Critique of 'Older Guys': Hamilton explicitly criticized "older drivers that more often than not didn't achieve much" for their negative comments about the new generation. He feels these critics lack the credibility to judge the current crop of talent.
- Praise for Franco Colapinto: Among the young drivers, Hamilton specifically lauded Alpine's Franco Colapinto, who secured a full season with the Enstone squad for 2026. Hamilton described him as a "genuinely nice human being" who is doing an "amazing" job despite significant pressure.
- Colapinto's new deal with Alpine was announced by team principal James Vowles, who stated Colapinto had "earned" the opportunity through his performance and dedication.
Between the lines:
Hamilton's comments can be seen as more than just a defense of young drivers; they're a subtle jab at elements within the F1 paddock that he believes are resistant to change or overly critical of modern racing. By highlighting the "negative things" from those who "didn't achieve much," he's drawing a clear line between those who contribute positively to the sport's evolution and those who, in his view, merely observe with cynicism. This sets a tone for how established figures should interact with and nurture future talent.
What's next:
As the grid continues to evolve and new talent pushes for seats, Hamilton's message reinforces the importance of mentorship and positive reinforcement. His ongoing support could empower young drivers to block out external noise and focus on their performance, potentially influencing how teams and the media engage with the next generation of F1 stars. This dynamic will be crucial as the sport looks to maintain its appeal and competitive edge with fresh faces.