Formula 1 legend Jackie Stewart has shared his thoughts on Lewis Hamilton’s surprising decision to leave Mercedes for Ferrari at the end of his career. Hamilton, already an F1 icon with 105 Grand Prix victories and seven world titles, has announced his move to Scuderia Ferrari for the 2024 season, signaling his intention to continue pushing the boundaries as he approaches his 40th birthday .
For Stewart, this choice is very unusual given Hamilton’s age, as Formula 1 requires not only immense physical endurance but also rapid recovery, which tends to favor younger drivers. The extreme heat in the cockpit, often reaching 40C, can have serious effects on the body, and while Hamilton’s raw talent remains undeniable, Stewart noted that age brings its own challenges.
“It’s harder for him to do it, I think, at 40 than it would have been if he was 25 or 30,” Stewart commented, reflecting on the intense physical demands drivers face as they age. . However, Stewart recognized Hamilton’s impressive performance at the British Grand Prix earlier this year as proof that the Briton still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Although Stewart considers Hamilton’s move to Ferrari to be out of the ordinary, he admires Hamilton’s passion and continued desire to compete. “It’s unusual. [d’aller chez Ferrari]but at some point he has to retire as a racing driver. He feels that moment hasn’t arrived yet, and I can understand that,” commented Stewart, highlighting Hamilton’s enduring love for the sport.
Stewart, who himself almost joined Ferrari during his career, reflected on the unique appeal of the legendary Italian team. Although he ultimately chose not to race for Ferrari, Stewart was captivated by the passionate atmosphere at Maranello, something he believes may have influenced Hamilton’s decision to don the red suit.
“The spirit of the place was incredible. Italians are great people, they explain themselves very carefully and enthusiastically, and I’m sure that’s what Lewis experienced as well,” noted Stewart, suggesting that Hamilton’s move might as much be about culture. and the mystique of Ferrari as well as the competition on the track.
As Hamilton prepares for his final six races with Mercedes, the F1 world is watching closely. Despite the W15’s struggles this season, each race represents a new opportunity for Hamilton to cement his legacy before beginning a new chapter with Ferrari. With his career coming to an end, the move to Ferrari could either reignite his title hopes or mark the start of his final lap in Formula 1.
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