Lewis Hamilton is just one race away from switching to red, at Ferrari, for the 2025 season.
After his last with Mercedes F1 in Abu Dhabi this weekend, he will discover another environment but also a Scuderia which is still waiting for a drivers' title.
How does he feel about trying to replicate what Michael Schumacher did, but other world champions failed to do, like Alonso, Vettel or Prost?
“I mean, I'm not trying to compare myself to Michael. Not to that. Right now, it's not something that I'm thinking about. Obviously, I'm trying to make sure I finish the right way and in the best possible way with Mercedes These next few days are going to be very emotional. It's a big unknown for what's to come. Obviously, there's a lot of excitement. I have nothing else to say at this time. subject.”
How important is this move to Ferrari at this stage of his career? Does this re-motivate him and make him want to move forward?
“Of course it really builds motivation and it's a dream scenario for any driver to have an opportunity like this. But you shouldn't take it for granted, it's difficult to go to Ferrari .”
“Also, you know, I have immense respect for Carlos (Sainz, alongside him, editor's note) and for everything he has done within the team. And I realize that it is a difficult step to take…”
“You know, I remember when I joined Mercedes, it was not an easy step to join a new team. And it takes time to build new relationships and learn the tools and everything.
“To approach next year with the same focus, the same power that I had when I joined Mercedes and with finally this leap of faith, I think it’s exciting and exhilarating.”
Does Carlos Sainz have any advice to make this leap of faith easier?
“No, honestly, I don't think a seven-time world champion who has changed teams several times in the past needs my advice. The only thing I can obviously recommend or tell him is to 'enjoy it.'
“It's an incredible place, as a team, and to drive in Formula 1. I think he will receive incredible treatment from the fans and all the fans, engineers, mechanics, everyone involved at Ferrari and that he will benefit from it because there is nothing better than being a Formula 1 driver at Ferrari.”
“And yes, I’m sure he’ll enjoy it.”
