Montezemolo Cautions Against Replacing Sainz with Hamilton WARNS Could Be a Risk due to…read more
Luca di Montezemolo, former president of Ferrari, has expressed caution regarding the potential risks of replacing Carlos Sainz with Lewis Hamilton for the 2025 Formula 1 season. While Hamilton’s proposed move to Ferrari has generated considerable excitement due to his seven world championships, Montezemolo believes the transition may not be as seamless as it seems.
With the 2024 season now concluded, Hamilton, at 39 years old, has shown signs of struggling with both performance and motivation. These issues could affect his confidence on the track, raising questions about how he will adapt to a new team, especially alongside Ferrari’s current star, Charles Leclerc. The possibility of pairing Hamilton with Leclerc has ignited much debate in the F1 community.
Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko commented on the potential dynamics between Hamilton and Leclerc, suggesting that while Hamilton could still be competitive if the car performs well, his motivation wanes when the car does not deliver podium results. Marko noted that Hamilton thrives in a car capable of challenging for wins but is less inclined to push for minor positions if the car is not up to par.
Former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya also weighed in on the matter, stating that while Hamilton might face challenges adjusting to Ferrari early on, he could quickly regain his form if the car is competitive. Montoya believes that Hamilton’s raw speed would shine through after a few races, allowing him to contend for championships once again.
Meanwhile, Marc Surer, another ex-F1 driver, pointed out the significant marketing advantages Ferrari would gain by signing Hamilton. His presence, according to Surer, would not only increase the brand’s global appeal but also boost car sales, making it a lucrative move for Ferrari.
However, Montezemolo’s perspective is more focused on the long-term implications of such a high-profile addition to the team. Having spent decades with Ferrari, Montezemolo understands that bringing in a driver like Hamilton is not just a marketing decision but a complex integration process. He acknowledges the excitement surrounding Hamilton’s potential arrival but warns that it could bring risks that Ferrari must carefully manage.
As speculation continues to swirl, the future of Hamilton and Ferrari remains uncertain, with many questions about how he will adjust to the team and whether he can rediscover his championship-winning form.
