“Let’s make this a memorable moment,” says Hamilton as he welcomes the new year and prepares to debut with his new team.
This time last year, the Briton was still a Mercedes driver. Of course, media speculation had often linked him with a “dream” move to Maranello. However, it must be recognized that at that time the Maranello team was still far from the titles, while the three-pointed star had given Hamilton six victories.
It’s true that the rule overhaul, not to mention the 2021 Abu Dhabi controversy, had hit Mercedes hard, but many felt that the German team would eventually find solutions to its problems, still offering its star driver the best chance to conquer this coveted eighth title.
Then, in mid-January, rumors around Hamilton’s possible move to Ferrari began to circulate again, but this time, there was something concrete. On Thursday, February 1, the Maranello team released a statement that was both brief and historic.
“Scuderia Ferrari is pleased to announce that Lewis Hamilton will join the team in 2025, on a multi-year contract. »
The repercussions of this announcement were particularly felt at Mercedes, where Toto Wolff was taken by surprise.
Although he was unable to finish with this eighth title, Hamilton still gave Mercedes two victories – even if one of them was due to a fault – by overcoming his teammate on the last lap of the last race.
Overall, Hamilton was diplomatic when speaking about his time at Ferrari, but since January 1, the day he officially became Charles Leclerc’s teammate, his speech has changed.
“Let’s make this a memorable one,” he wrote on Linkedin.
“Joining Scuderia Ferrari, there is a lot to think about,” he added. “To everyone considering their next move in 2025: embrace change. »
“Whether you’re changing industries, learning a new skill, or even taking on new challenges, remember that reinvention is strength. Your next opportunity is always within reach. »
While the sight of the seven-time world champion dressed in red will bring a boost to the sport, it remains to be seen whether the Italian team can provide him with a car (and strategies) to match his talent, especially as big names like Prost, Alonso and Vettel have all tried without success.
Acknowledging the excitement over seeing Hamilton sport the prancing horse crest for the first time, team principal Fred Vasseur insists the seriousness that follows is what really matters.
“Everyone in the world is excited, for sure,” he told Sky Sports, “the mechanics are excited too, but it’s always exciting to have a seven-time world champion on board . »
“But I think after the first day we will have to turn the page and concentrate on the work,” he warned.
Asked if the Briton’s first outings with the team were likely to be emotional, the Frenchman replied: “Yes, it’s true that it’s quite emotional, because I think he’s had this moment in his mind for probably twenty years. »
“That means it will be emotional, but it only has to be emotional for one round! Then he has to concentrate,” he added.
“You know that every team is different, but we are all pursuing the same goal with the same approach. What’s a little different is the passion or the emotion around the team, but I think Lewis is well prepared to handle that. I think it’s much easier to get somewhere when passion is at its peak than the opposite. »
