Bernie Ecclestone Slams Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari Move: Calls It ‘Nonsense’ and Questions His Motivation
Former Formula 1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone has voiced strong criticism regarding Lewis Hamilton’s impending move to Ferrari for the 2025 season. Ecclestone, who led Formula 1 for nearly four decades, has expressed doubts about Hamilton’s motivation and the wisdom of his decision to join the iconic Italian team.
In a recent interview, Ecclestone questioned Hamilton’s current form and enthusiasm for the sport. He suggested that if Hamilton feels he is “fading,” it would be prudent for him to step away from Formula 1 altogether. Ecclestone stated, “If Lewis is fading, which I don’t like to see, he should go away and do something else, and do a good job at it.”
Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, announced earlier this year that he would be leaving Mercedes to join Ferrari, fulfilling a long-held ambition. However, his final season with Mercedes has been challenging, with Hamilton currently sitting seventh in the drivers’ championship and being outperformed by his teammate, George Russell. These struggles have led to questions about his form and readiness to compete at the highest level with Ferrari.
Ecclestone also highlighted the potential challenges Hamilton might face within the Ferrari team dynamics. He emphasized that Ferrari has a strong commitment to their current driver, Charles Leclerc, who has been with the team since 2019 and has delivered impressive performances. Ecclestone remarked, “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.”
Furthermore, Ecclestone questioned the motivations behind Hamilton’s move to Ferrari. He suggested that the decision might have been driven more by Ferrari’s desire to capture a high-profile driver than by a strategic plan for success. Ecclestone commented, “For John Elkann, the guy who runs it, it was a big ego thing. He thought he had captured the best guy the world had ever seen. When he signed him there was nothing to indicate he was wrong in that assessment. Whether he is still happy with that is another story.”
This is not the first time Ecclestone has been critical of Hamilton’s career choices and off-track activities. He has previously expressed disapproval of Hamilton’s ventures outside of racing, including his fashion endeavors and involvement in the music industry. Ecclestone has implied that these activities might be distractions that could impact Hamilton’s performance on the track.
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has been one of the most talked-about transitions in recent Formula 1 history. The partnership between Hamilton and Ferrari brings together one of the sport’s most successful drivers with its most storied team. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this collaboration will unfold.
Despite the criticisms and doubts expressed by figures like Ecclestone, Hamilton remains focused on the challenges ahead. In previous responses to critiques, Hamilton has emphasized his commitment to the sport and his determination to succeed. As he prepares to don the iconic red of Ferrari, Hamilton faces the dual challenges of proving his enduring talent and adapting to a new team environment.
The 2025 season will undoubtedly be a pivotal one for Hamilton. His performance with Ferrari will not only influence his legacy but also impact the team’s pursuit of championship glory. As the season approaches, the Formula 1 community will be watching closely to see if Hamilton can defy his critics and achieve success with the Scuderia.
In conclusion, while Bernie Ecclestone’s remarks reflect skepticism about Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, they also underscore the high expectations and pressures that come with such a significant career decision. Hamilton’s journey with Ferrari will be a major storyline in the upcoming Formula 1 season, with fans and analysts keen to see how this new chapter in his illustrious career unfolds.
