Lewis Hamilton delivered one of the most unforgettable performances of the 2025 Formula 1 season, pulling off an insane comeback at the Imola Grand Prix that left Ferrari and Charles Leclerc absolutely stunned. Starting from a lowly 20th on the grid due to a 20-place penalty, the seven-time world champion surged through the field with precision, pace, and unmatched determination — proving once again why he’s one of the greatest drivers in F1 history.
Despite beginning the race at the very back, Hamilton wasted no time carving his way up the order. By lap 15, he had already cracked the top 10. As rain briefly threatened to shake up strategies mid-race, Hamilton’s tire management and decision-making with the Mercedes team proved flawless. Utilizing a bold undercut during the second pit window, he leapfrogged several rivals — including both McLarens and even Red Bull’s Sergio Pérez.
But the defining moment came in the final 10 laps, when Hamilton closed in on Charles Leclerc in P3. The Ferrari driver, beloved by the home crowd at Imola, put up a fierce defense, but Hamilton’s relentless pace and masterful overtake on Turn 2 left Leclerc — and the Tifosi — in disbelief.
“It was like he came out of nowhere,” Leclerc admitted after the race. “I gave it everything, but Lewis was just on another level today. Respect.”
Hamilton eventually crossed the line in an astonishing P2 finish, earning Driver of the Day honors and drawing widespread praise across the paddock. “This one means a lot,” Hamilton said. “We had a mountain to climb after the penalty, but the team gave me an incredible car. I just kept believing.”
Ferrari, who had hoped to dominate their home race, could only watch as Hamilton stole the spotlight with his electrifying drive. Team principal Frédéric Vasseur acknowledged the blow: “We had no answer for that level of performance. It was a masterclass.”
Social media exploded with reactions to Hamilton’s comeback, with fans and pundits calling it one of his greatest drives. The performance has also reignited the championship battle, as Hamilton now sits just a few points behind the current leaders.
As F1 heads to Monaco, the momentum clearly lies with Mercedes and their legendary driver. After Imola, one thing is certain — never count out Lewis Hamilton.
