David Coulthard pushes back on ‘sensitive’ Lewis Hamilton complaints about media criticism
· Yahoo Sports
David Coulthard has dismissed suggestions that he’s been unfairly harsh on Lewis Hamilton, insisting he’s simply offering his perspective.
During a rocky debut season with Ferrari, Hamilton faced plenty of backlash over how he was handling the transition.
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Looking ahead to his time with Ferrari, Hamilton had hoped to build a legacy similar to Michael Schumacher’s. He wanted to feel the same admiration from fans that Schumacher enjoyed during his career.
Even after turning things around this season, some feel Hamilton still isn’t getting enough credit for his improved performances.
David Coulthard defends his ‘honest’ criticism of Lewis Hamilton
Appearing on the Drive to Wynn podcast, David Coulthard addressed why he’s been so critical of Lewis Hamilton, explaining that it comes down to his role as a pundit.
While stressing that his comments weren’t personal, he made it clear that they were based on how Hamilton was performing at specific points in time.
“Lewis is an incredible driver. No one can ever dilute what he’s achieved. I certainly don’t want to. Lewis quite often will reference the fact that there are a lot of doubters out there, and it’s great to show them what I’m doing.
“If I was to ever make a comment about Lewis, it’s not because I doubt him. It’s because I’m commenting on that moment in history. In Lewis’ career, he more often than not beat his teammates… Then, in his last year at Mercedes, George was starting to look like the more consistent qualifier.
“In his first year at Ferrari, Charles looked like the more consistent qualifier. This isn’t a rookie. This is Lewis Hamilton. People can say now they’re starting to develop the car towards his style…
“I know Lewis is a bit sensitive to any criticism, but we all are… If I can have that honesty about myself, why would I be restricted in being in my opinion honest about other people’s performances?…”
David Coulthard backs Lewis Hamilton to take first Ferrari win of the season
Looking ahead to the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix, Coulthard shared his thoughts on how Hamilton might perform.
“I’m really interested to see Lewis in Barcelona, a track where there is a bit more space for dipping a wheel here and there.
“Everything would indicate since the beginning of this year that he’s on form, he’s liking the car, he’s going to have a strong year, and probably win a Grand Prix at some point.”
The shift in results has also been noticeable off the track. Hamilton’s body language around Ferrari has visibly improved as he’s started to find consistency again.
Sitting second in the championship standings, Hamilton appears well-placed to launch his first serious title push in half a decade.
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