Lewis Hamilton’s upcoming move to Ferrari in 2025 has created a lot of buzz, with many fans excited about this potential fairytale partnership. However, not everyone believes the seven-time Formula 1 champion will have smooth sailing with the iconic Italian team.
Hamilton is set to join Ferrari alongside team principal Fred Vasseur and Charles Leclerc, a rising star from Monaco, ahead of the 2025 season. This move marks the end of his long tenure at Mercedes, a period that brought him six of his seven world titles and solidified his legacy as one of the most accomplished drivers in Formula 1 history.
Ecclestone Predicts Major Struggles for Hamilton at Ferrari
Despite the excitement, Bernie Ecclestone, the former F1 supremo, has predicted that Hamilton may face significant challenges at Ferrari. Ecclestone, known for his direct commentary, suggests that the Scuderia may favor Charles Leclerc over Hamilton, making it difficult for the British driver to challenge for an eighth world title with the team.
When asked by the Daily Mail if Hamilton would be able to surpass Michael Schumacher by claiming his eighth title with Ferrari, Ecclestone said: “I believe he won’t,” adding, “I don’t think it will be easy for Lewis. Especially in that team. They will back Charles Leclerc. He’s quick and has grown up there. They won’t dump him for anyone.”
Leclerc’s Established Role at Ferrari
The dynamic between Hamilton and Leclerc has been a topic of speculation for some time. Leclerc, a product of the Ferrari academy since 2016, has established himself as one of Ferrari’s key drivers. Having raced for the team since 2019, Leclerc has a strong bond with the team and the Tifosi, Ferrari’s passionate fan base. With his potential to become a future world champion, Ferrari is heavily invested in Leclerc’s success, which could make it challenging for Hamilton to break into the team’s hierarchy.
Ecclestone’s View on Hamilton’s Move to Ferrari
While Ecclestone has expressed concerns about Hamilton’s success at Ferrari, he also sees the logic behind Hamilton’s decision to leave Mercedes. “From Lewis’ point of view, it may not have been a mistake to join Ferrari. He couldn’t exist any longer at Mercedes,” Ecclestone said. “Either he’s given up with them, or they have given up on him. They wouldn’t do much to keep him, so he is better off going.”
Mercedes’ Decline and Hamilton’s Future
With Mercedes trailing Ferrari by 175 points in the constructors’ standings, Hamilton’s move to Ferrari may prove crucial in his quest to end the dominance of Max Verstappen in Formula 1. The decision to wear Ferrari’s red overalls is a bold step for Hamilton, as he aims to continue his legacy and possibly secure another F1 championship.
