‘GOAT’ Lewis Hamilton’s close ally Angela Cullen opens up after splitting with Mercedes driver

Lewis Hamilton’s former physiotherapist and assistant Angela Cullen recently thanked the British F1 driver for their time together in a heartfelt message on social media.

Just hours before the first practice session of the 2023 Saudi Arabian F1 GP, Hamilton announced that he and Cullen had decided to part ways.

The 48-year-old responded with a post of her own, saying:

“On this day exactly 7 years ago I stood in the F1 paddock for the first time at the Australian GP. Today I am happy to announce that I am embarking on my next adventure. I am so grateful and blessed to have had this incredible journey in F1 and I know my story will continue. Thanks to the MB team who have been my family for 7 years.”

The New Zealander delivered an encouraging message to Hamilton, calling him the greatest of all time. She said:

“And @lewishamilton you GOAT!! It was such an honor and joy to stand by your side. I am so proud of you and everything you have achieved. Thank you for supporting me, believing in me and showing me the limitless potential we all have within us. I’m so excited to see the next chapter for you. There’s nothing you can’t do. Don’t stop believing… Life’s journey is one big wave. ride on. dream big How dreams come true forever your side STILL STAND UP.”

As a child, Cullen reportedly had “a passion for all sports.” She apparently dabbled in cricket, soccer, netball, volleyball, basketball, swimming and track and field during her formative years in New Zealand.

However, Cullen was drawn towards field hockey and even represented her nation while she was in the 15-21 age group. She then completed a degree in health sciences and physiotherapy, which brought her to work in the well-being of high-performance athletes.

As part of Lewis Hamilton’s inner circle, Cullen was responsible for planning his daily routine, managing his personal logistics, sleeping habits, travel arrangements, diet and more. During their time together, Cullen was credited with being one of the main reasons for Hamilton’s unmatched skill and performance.

In the past, Hamilton called Cullen one of the greatest things that had happened to him. In Cullen, he had not only a trusted collaborator but a close confidante, and it will be interesting to see who takes her place in the future.

‘There’s a million things he wants to say’ – Lewis Hamilton faces undue criticism, according to Mika Hakkinen

Lewis Hamilton has a lot to say to his critics but chooses not to, according to former two-time F1 world champion Mika Häkkinen.

Hamilton is currently in his 11th season with Mercedes in 2023, tying Michael Schumacher with a single team for most seasons. However, the seven-time world champion started the season with the proverbial chip on his shoulder.

For the first time since his F1 debut in 2007, the Briton failed to claim a single win or pole position all season. This brought him a barrage of criticism that Häkkinen felt was misplaced.

Speaking on Unibet International’s YouTube channel about the Silver Arrows’ chances in the upcoming 2023 F1 season, the 53-year-old said:

“Lewis Hamilton will be back… I think he will be very motivated. He will give everything. It will be interesting to see how long he has the patience for Formula 1. There is so much criticism and so many critics. “I’m sure there are a million things he would like to say. But he knows how much discussion it would provoke. It’s not an easy place after all these years.”

Lewis Hamilton also finished P6 in the Drivers’ Championship last year, 35 points behind teammate George Russell while struggling to tame the Mercedes W13.

Hakkinen believes the 38-year-old will need to show improved mental toughness as he faces Russell this time around. He added:

“If the car is good and winning, then everything is fine. If not, his comments may not be very flattering. The motivation and mental strength have to be there. He has to give 100% because his team-mate is fast and strong. If Lewis Hamilton can’t beat his teammate, he made a mistake somewhere.”

Lewis Hamilton is still in talks over a new deal with Mercedes, but some believe he could stall the team’s competitive advantage before entrusting them with his future.