F1 News: Toto Wolff Highlights Lewis Hamilton's Self-Criticism Following Italian Grand Prix

Toto Wolff is focusing on Lewis Hamilton's self-criticism following the Italian Grand Prix, highlighting it as a key trait of a champion. He said as much to Sky Sports F1 after qualifying.

Hamilton expressed frustration over his qualifying performance, where he finished sixth instead of securing a pole position he believed was within reach.

"I am furious, absolutely furious. I could have been on pole, at least on the front row. I just didn't do the job at the end.

His disappointment stemmed from a few mistakes that cost him valuable time on the track.

Hamilton acknowledged that qualifying has been a challenge for him recently and mentioned that he would be reflecting on his performance for the next few hours.

"I lost a tenth and a half through Turns One and Two, and then a tenth in the last corner. No one to blame but myself. Qualifying has been my weakness for a minute now and I can't figure it out.

"I will be kicking myself for the next couple of hours but I need to move forward. We have a good race car, the team have done an amazing job this weekend, they really have.

He also hinted that his future teammate, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, might help fill the gap for Mercedes next season.

"The car felt better than last race and the team deserve better. Maybe they will get that with Kimi [Antonelli]."

He added:

"It was absolutely ridiculous from my side and completely unacceptable.

"I'm just not very good at qualifying, simple as. It is unbelievably frustrating but I will keep working. That's all I can do."

Wolff praised Hamilton's introspection, noting that a true champion looks inward to identify areas for improvement. He said it to GPBlog.com .

"I think the great characteristic of a champion is to first look at himself and say, ‘What did I do wrong?’ And I think that's what he's doing. He's trying to find where he can improve, what he could have done better and where he's lost their performance.

He emphasized that this mindset is crucial for both Hamilton and the team as they prepare for the remaining races of the season.

"He's been very strong, and was a role model for George, and even for Kimi. It's something that is important for the team. But the greatest of all time are very critical."

With Hamilton set to leave Mercedes for Ferrari in 2025, both he and Wolff are keen to make the most of their time together in the final races ahead.