Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Hamilton Faces Grid Drop at Ferrari’s Lauda Tribute as Wolff Signals Openness to Mercedes Succession

Hamilton's first Ferrari season has produced no podiums, with Monza staged as a 50-year tribute to Niki Lauda.

Overview

  • Lewis Hamilton arrives at Monza still seeking his first Ferrari podium after 15 races, frequently finishing behind teammate Charles Leclerc.
  • Hamilton will serve a five-place grid penalty for failing to slow sufficiently under double yellow flags at Zandvoort.
  • Ferrari unveiled a 312T-inspired retro livery and period-style team apparel to honor Lauda’s 1975 title, including a white engine cover and silver rear wing.
  • Hamilton paid personal tribute by recreating Lauda’s iconic Monza photo and wearing a special helmet, noting he never discussed Lauda’s Ferrari years with him and recalling a story of Lauda leaving trophies at a gas station.
  • Toto Wolff said he would step aside if a better successor is found and floated a split leadership model, stressing any decision would be made with Mercedes-Benz and INEOS and that no immediate departure is planned.