Usain Bolt backs Lewis Hamilton as F1’s GOAT but warns Ferrari teething could delay titles. Betting impact: avoid backing Hamilton for the 2026 world title until Ferrari proves pace—consider race podium/top-5 or alternative drivers for early-season value; long-term Hamilton title odds may shorten if Ferrari improves.
Bolt Backs Hamilton as F1 GOAT Despite Ferrari Struggles
Usain Bolt has reiterated his belief that Lewis Hamilton remains the greatest Formula 1 driver of all time, even after a difficult first season with Ferrari. Hamilton still holds a joint-record seven world championships and the sport’s outright records for race wins (105), pole positions (104) and podiums (202).
Hamilton’s Rocky First Year at Ferrari
Hamilton moved to Ferrari for the 2025 season following a long and successful stint with Mercedes. The year produced career lows: it was the first season Hamilton failed to score a single Grand Prix podium, and he described the campaign as a “nightmare” and his “worst season ever” while struggling to adapt to Ferrari’s working methods and car dynamics.
Mercedes Legacy vs Ferrari Reality
Much of Hamilton’s previous success came at Mercedes, where his Brackley-era partnership delivered six of his seven titles along with 84 wins, 78 poles and 153 podiums for the team. The shift to Ferrari required adjustments both on and off track, with Hamilton providing documented feedback on areas he felt Ferrari should change.
Team Reaction and Inside Perspective
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur conceded the team “underestimated” the challenge Hamilton faced in integrating with a non-English environment and a different operational culture. That admission underscores the scale of the adaptation Hamilton has had to undertake in his first season in Maranello.
Bolt Predicts a Gradual Recovery
Bolt is optimistic about Hamilton’s long-term prospects but cautions it may take time. “I don’t think it will be easy for him. He’ll need another year or two to feel completely comfortable at Ferrari,” Bolt said, while expressing confidence Hamilton will return to title-winning form once the partnership and car are aligned.
Betting Implications: How Punters Should React
Short-term: Expect markets to be cautious on Hamilton for the immediate title markets—punters may find better value backing podiums or top‑5 finishes in individual races rather than outright 2026 championship bets until Ferrari demonstrates consistent pace improvements.
Medium-to-long term: If pre-season testing and early races show clear Ferrari progress, Hamilton’s odds for a return to the top could shorten rapidly, creating opportunities for timely outright wagers.
Alternative strategies: Consider hedging with drivers from more stable-performing teams early in the season, and monitor team upgrades and lap‑time data closely before committing to championship bets.
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Usain Bolt has “no doubt” that Lewis Hamilton is still the greatest F1 driver of all time, but the Olympic legend does not expect to...
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