Key Ferrari figure addresses Lewis Hamilton ‘problem’ after Leclerc…read more
Lewis Hamilton’s recent transition to Ferrari has been a focal point in the Formula 1 community, especially following his performance alongside teammate Charles Leclerc during a Pirelli tire test at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. In this session, Hamilton posted a fastest lap of 1:15.930, edging out Leclerc by 0.130 seconds, with both trailing McLaren’s Lando Norris.
This move to Ferrari comes after Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes, following a challenging 2024 season where he faced difficulties in qualifying sessions and was outpaced by teammate George Russell. These struggles led to speculations about Hamilton’s form and whether his switch to Ferrari might have come too late in his career.
Addressing these concerns, Piero Ferrari, son of the legendary Enzo Ferrari, dismissed any doubts about Hamilton’s age or capability. He emphasized Hamilton’s physical and mental fitness, stating, “Age isn’t a problem.” Piero also highlighted Hamilton’s enthusiasm and readiness for the new challenge, noting that the driver was “pleasantly surprised” by the warm reception he received at the Maranello factory.
Hamilton’s integration into the Ferrari team has been marked by significant events. He visited the Maranello factory, met with engineers and teammates, and was greeted by cheering fans, an experience that reportedly surprised both him and his family. However, his early days with Ferrari haven’t been without challenges. During a test session at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, Hamilton experienced a crash that caused substantial damage to the car’s suspension and aerodynamic components. Despite the setback, he emerged unscathed and reassured fans of his well-being.
Reflecting on his move to Ferrari, Hamilton expressed that it felt like a “dream” and likened his excitement to that of his first F1 test drive. He has long harbored a desire to race for the Scuderia, with Piero Ferrari revealing that over the years, Hamilton frequently expressed his wish to join the team. Piero mentioned, “Lewis has always been sensitive to the Cavallino’s charm,” indicating a longstanding mutual interest.
As the 2025 season approaches, Hamilton is gearing up for his debut with Ferrari, aiming to secure a record eighth F1 drivers’ championship. The season is set to commence with the Australian Grand Prix in March. Hamilton’s partnership with Leclerc is anticipated to be a formidable one, with Piero Ferrari expressing optimism about their collaboration, stating that they “make a good couple.”
In preparation for the upcoming season, both Hamilton and Leclerc participated in a Pirelli tire test at Barcelona. This test was part of Pirelli’s development program for the 2026 season’s tires. The drivers tested a modified version of the Ferrari SF-24, which was reportedly 30kg lighter than its predecessor. This modification aimed to provide Pirelli with data on how the new tires perform under different conditions.
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has not only been a significant shift in his career but has also generated considerable excitement among fans and within the team. His arrival is seen as a blend of experience and charisma, qualities that Piero Ferrari believes align perfectly with the Ferrari ethos. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on how Hamilton adapts to his new environment and whether he can achieve the historic milestone of an eighth championship with the Scuderia.
In summary, while Hamilton’s initial days with Ferrari have presented challenges, including a testing crash and the inevitable comparisons with his teammate Leclerc, the overarching sentiment within the team remains positive. Piero Ferrari’s confidence in Hamilton’s abilities and the driver’s own enthusiasm suggest a promising partnership ahead. As the 2025 season approaches, the collaboration between Hamilton and Leclerc is poised to be a focal point in the Formula 1 narrative, with fans eagerly anticipating the outcomes of this new chapter in Ferrari’s storied history.
