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Bernie Ecclestone Doubts Lewis Hamilton’s Long-Term Future at Ferrari

Former Formula 1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone has raised questions about Lewis Hamilton’s future with Ferrari, suggesting the seven-time world champion may not remain with the team for the entirety of his two-year contract. Ecclestone, who played a pivotal role in shaping the modern era of Formula 1, expressed skepticism about the potential longevity of Hamilton’s career with the Italian team.
Hamilton, who has been with Mercedes since 2013, has long been linked with a move to Ferrari. The British driver, widely regarded as one of the greatest in Formula 1 history, is now in the later stages of his career and has made the move to Ferrari for the 2024 season. Despite the excitement surrounding the new chapter in Hamilton’s career, Ecclestone raised concerns about how long he would stay with Ferrari.
“I don’t think Lewis will finish his two-year contract at Ferrari,” Ecclestone said in a recent interview. “It’s a tough environment, and with all due respect to Ferrari, it’s not always the easiest place to work, even for someone with his caliber. Ferrari is known for its intense internal politics, and there’s a possibility that he might struggle to adapt or even regret the decision down the line.”
Ecclestone’s remarks highlight the significant challenges Ferrari faces in retaining top drivers. While the team has a rich history and strong fan base, it is also known for its internal struggles and pressure to perform at the highest level. This high-stress environment can sometimes become difficult for even the most accomplished drivers to navigate.
In the past, several top drivers have joined Ferrari only to leave or not achieve the level of success they had hoped for. Ecclestone warned Hamilton that he could face similar challenges and may find himself questioning his decision to leave Mercedes, a team with which he has won multiple titles. The 39-year-old driver’s reputation as one of the most successful drivers in Formula 1 history has raised expectations, and Ferrari’s current form may not be enough to meet those expectations immediately.
Though the future remains uncertain, Hamilton’s relationship with Ferrari could play a key role in his legacy as one of the sport’s greats. The coming months will likely determine whether the partnership can withstand the pressures of Formula 1’s highest echelons.
As for Ecclestone, he emphasized that Hamilton’s success with Ferrari could depend heavily on the team’s ability to provide a competitive car, alongside a stable and supportive environment, something Ferrari has struggled with in recent years.