Angela Cullen, a key figure in the Formula 1 environment, recently made a bold statement that shook the motorsport world. After Lewis Hamilton’s disappointment at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, Cullen publicly revealed the reasons that led her to leave Ferrari, after having worked side by side with the seven-time world champion. Her decision surprised many, especially considering that the relationship between Cullen and Hamilton seemed to be solid and well-established, but recent events have forced her to go her own way.
During the interview, Angela Cullen exposed a series of personal and professional reasons that contributed to her decision to leave the Maranello team. “Lewis’ difficulties during the Saudi Arabian GP were the culmination of a series of factors that could no longer be ignored,” said Cullen. “Ferrari failed to provide him with the right car to express his talent. In a team like Ferrari, where the pressure is always high, there is no room for uncertainty, and Lewis has felt this at every point of his career with the team.”
Hamilton, who moved from Mercedes to Ferrari with high expectations, has had a difficult start to the season. Not only has he struggled to achieve the results expected of him, he has also struggled to manage his car, which did not seem to live up to his expectations and the level he had hoped to reach. After the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, where Hamilton finished lower than teammate Charles Leclerc, tensions within the team have become increasingly tense.
Cullen revealed that his decision to leave Ferrari was not an easy one, but it was a move he felt was necessary for his professional well-being. “It’s not just the race results that make the difference, but also how a driver feels within the team. The culture that you breathe and the support you receive are essential. When that’s missing, it’s difficult to stay motivated,” he explained. “I never had any doubts that Lewis was an exceptional driver, but his mood was starting to change. I saw the frustration building and that influenced my decision to step away.”
Ferrari, unfortunately, struggled to provide a competitive car for Hamilton, and the performance issues took their toll not only on the driver but also on the staff who supported him. Cullen added that the team had failed to provide the support needed at a crucial time in Hamilton’s career. “It was clear that Hamilton was not getting what he deserved. Ferrari failed to deliver on the promises they made to Lewis. It’s difficult to work in these conditions, and I also felt that my role was no longer aligned with what I wanted to do professionally.”
His decision has sparked a mixed reaction among Formula 1 fans and pundits. Some have argued that Cullen was trying to defend Hamilton and his choices, while others have suggested that his departure was due to deeper differences with Ferrari management. Cullen’s comments have only fueled questions about the internal dynamics of the team, which has already been under scrutiny for Hamilton’s poor performances.
The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was particularly difficult for Hamilton, who finished the race well off the top of the standings, with Leclerc continuing to dominate the team. Rumours of a possible return to Mercedes have already circulated, but for now, the focus is on his next moves and the support he will receive from his closest staff. Cullen, however, is no longer part of that picture, and his absence will be felt within the team.
In short, Angela Cullen’s departure from Ferrari marks a major turning point in Hamilton’s season. The driver’s struggles with the car and the frustration he has felt have had a clear impact on his team as well. Cullen’s decision to step away was motivated by a desire to align her career path with her personal values, but her departure raises questions about the challenges Hamilton and Ferrari will face in regaining their competitiveness. It will be interesting to see how the team responds to the difficulties of this season and whether they can get back on track in time for the next races.
