Lewis Hamilton calls for protection of emerging talents amid criticism

The message from Lewis Hamilton rang loud in Brazil. Formula 1 must back its new generation, not wear them down with negativity. In a year filled with scrutiny and pressure, the seven-time champion pointed out that certain “older figures” in the paddock create a climate that harms rookies. He demanded a cultural shift toward support and protection for those taking their first steps at the elite level.

F1 is living an unusual moment. Six rookies hold full-time seats in 2025. Kimi Antonelli, Oliver Bearman, Liam Lawson, Gabriel Bortoleto, Isack Hadjar, and Franco Colapinto. All have shown performance, maturity, and resilience in an environment more closely watched than ever. Lewis Hamilton, who debuted in 2007, stressed that today scrutiny extends beyond the press room and multiplies on social media, a factor he did not face early in his career.

Hamilton backs the new wave

In his remarks, Lewis Hamilton was direct with voices from the past that discredit young drivers. “You hear many negative things from these older guys, veteran drivers who, more often than not, didn’t achieve much.” Instead of echoing that tone, he reaffirmed that he will “always” support youth. He also celebrated seeing rookies focused on what they love and finding results through quiet hard work.

Lewis Hamilton: On his ongoing support for young drivers. #F1 #lewishamilton pic.twitter.com/5OYjHZsvmC

— The_Offside_View (@TheOffside7) November 18, 2025

The British driver’s personal context also explains his stance. His first season with Ferrari has been turbulent, a “nightmare” in his own words. It has been marked by criticism and doubts about his move to Maranello. Still, Lewis Hamilton said he learned not to dignify skeptics with answers. How you present yourself and how you act eventually disprove opinions. In an interview with Time, he added that he does not respond to “older white men” who comment on his career. Instead, he prefers performance and conduct to close the conversation.

Competitive background

Beyond the cultural issue, there is a complex competitive present. Lewis Hamilton has not reached the podium this season, though his sprint win in Shanghai was one of the few highlights in a difficult year. The contrast between his historic record and current challenges amplifies the value of his message. Protecting those starting out is not indulgence. It is investing in the sport’s health and its generational renewal.

Outlets like Athlonsports underline that Lewis Hamilton combines memory and leadership. For that reason, he is a strong voice to denounce a growing problem in F1, one that requires answers from teams, media, and historical figures. It is not about silencing criticism but ensuring it is constructive and provides tools for young drivers to withstand pressure without being crushed by it.

Lewis Hamilton is excited to see the new crop of stars succeed. pic.twitter.com/dueHO04yL0

— Motorsport (@Motorsport) November 16, 2025

Lewis Hamilton demands a new script

In the end, Lewis Hamilton asks the paddock to change the script. Fewer attacks from nostalgia, more mentorship. Less noise, more direction. In a season that exposes rookies so much, the sport has the chance—and the duty—to support them so the next decade of F1 does not lose its best talent before it blossoms.