Hamilton Addresses Ferrari Exit Rumors – Here’s What’s Really…..read more
Lewis Hamilton has firmly dismissed speculation that he might retire from Formula 1 if he secures a record-breaking eighth World Championship title with Ferrari in the 2025 season. The British driver, who recently turned 40, joined the iconic Italian team over the winter on a multi-year contract, reportedly worth $57 million annually, covering at least the next two seasons.
Hamilton’s illustrious career boasts a joint-record seven World Championships, 104 pole positions, and 105 race wins. However, the past three seasons have seen him clinch just one pole position and two victories, largely due to Mercedes’ challenges in adapting to Formula 1’s ground-effect regulations.
The 2021 season finale in Abu Dhabi remains a pivotal moment in Hamilton’s career. In a controversial conclusion, Red Bull’s Max Verstappen secured his first World Championship, denying Hamilton his eighth title. Reflecting on that period, Hamilton admitted he contemplated leaving the sport, stating, “There was so much going through my mind during that period in time.”
Addressing the media after his initial experience with Ferrari’s 2025 challenger, the SF-25, Hamilton refuted claims that he would retire if he achieved the elusive eighth title this year. He emphasized, “If I was fortunate enough to win another title, which is obviously what we’re setting out to do, I don’t see myself stopping.”
When asked about seeking “revenge” for the 2021 defeat to Verstappen, Hamilton clarified that his focus is on securing his first championship with Ferrari, rather than fixating on the number eight. He remarked, “For me, it’s the first. Winning a championship at Ferrari is the first. That’s what I’m working towards.”
Ferrari’s last World Championship dates back to 2008, with Kimi Räikkönen’ 2007 triumph marking their most recent Drivers’ title. Hamilton expressed his commitment to ending this drought, highlighting the team’s rich history and inherent winning mentality. He noted, “This team already has an insane legacy… in their DNA they have that winning mentality.”
Reports from Italy suggest that the SF-25 is approximately 0.4 seconds faster than its predecessor, based on simulator data. Ferrari has adopted an ambitious approach with the SF-25, previously known as Project 677, for the final year of the current regulations. Team principal Fred Vasseur confirmed that the car is “completely new,” with significant changes, including a shift to a pullrod front suspension. This design, favored by rivals McLaren and Red Bull, aims to enhance airflow to the car’s underbody, optimizing aerodynamic performance under the ground-effect regulations.
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari marks a significant chapter in his career. After a successful tenure with Mercedes, his transition to Ferrari was announced in February 2024, replacing Carlos Sainz Jr. and partnering with Charles Leclerc. Hamilton described the move as fulfilling a “childhood dream” and acknowledged the challenge of bringing championship success to a team that hasn’t secured a title in nearly two decades. This switch is reminiscent of his 2013 move from McLaren to Mercedes, surprising many in the motorsport community.
As the 2025 season approaches, Hamilton remains optimistic about his prospects with Ferrari. He acknowledged the fierce competition from teams like McLaren, Red Bull, and his former team, Mercedes. However, he believes in the “magic” within Ferrari and is dedicated to working collaboratively to achieve their shared goals. Hamilton stated, “It’s going to still take a lot of hard work and grafting from absolutely everyone… but it’s also about belief.”
The upcoming season promises intense rivalries and high stakes, with Hamilton aiming to make history by securing his first championship with Ferrari and an unprecedented eighth World Championship overall. His determination and the team’s innovative approach with the SF-25 position them as formidable contenders in the 2025 Formula 1 season.
