Lewis Hamilton Fires Back at Criticism Over Ferrari Move: “I’m Built…..read more
Seven-time Formula 1 champion Lewis Hamilton has strongly dismissed criticism surrounding his high-profile switch from Mercedes to Ferrari, particularly comments made by former F1 team boss Eddie Jordan and ex-F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone. Hamilton, who is preparing for his debut season with Ferrari, shrugged off their remarks, attributing them to an outdated mindset among “older, white men.”
As he gears up for his 19th season in Formula 1, the 40-year-old Brit is already making a strong impression, topping the timing charts during pre-season testing in Bahrain on Thursday morning. Hamilton’s move to Ferrari marks the end of a dominant 12-year spell at Mercedes, where he clinched six of his seven world titles. Now, he is fully focused on bringing Ferrari its first drivers’ championship since 2007.
Speaking to Time magazine, Hamilton made it clear that outside opinions do not faze him. Instead, he uses negativity as motivation.
“I’ve always welcomed the negativity,” Hamilton stated. “I never, ever reply to any of the older, ultimately, white men who have commented on my career and what they think I should be doing. How you show up, how you present yourself, how you perform—slowly that dispels the doubt.”
Jordan had questioned Ferrari’s decision to bring in Hamilton at the cost of losing Carlos Sainz, while Ecclestone cast doubt on the British driver’s motivation, even suggesting that he might not see out two years at the Italian team. However, Hamilton remains unfazed by such skepticism.
Throughout his career, Hamilton has faced criticism, often being underestimated despite his unparalleled success. However, he insists that this move to Ferrari has given him a new sense of energy and purpose. He is hungrier than ever to achieve his long-standing goal—winning an unprecedented eighth world title.
“Don’t ever compare me to anybody else,” Hamilton asserted. “I’m the first and only Black driver that’s ever been in this sport. I’m built different. I’ve been through a lot. I’ve had my own journey. You can’t compare me to another 40-year-old, past or present, Formula One driver in history. Because they are nothing like me.”
He further emphasized that, unlike some drivers who lose focus later in their careers due to personal commitments, he remains fully dedicated to winning.
“I’m hungry, driven, don’t have a wife and kids. I’m focused on one thing, and that’s winning. That’s my No. 1 priority.”
Hamilton has signed a multi-year contract with Ferrari and will partner Charles Leclerc at the legendary Italian outfit. Despite being one of the oldest drivers on the grid, Hamilton has no doubts about his ability to continue performing at the highest level. He firmly believes that he has many years of racing left in him.
With his sights set on rewriting history and proving his critics wrong once again, Hamilton’s highly anticipated first season with Ferrari is shaping up to be one of the most exciting storylines in Formula 1. As he steps into the scarlet red car, the world will be watching to see if he can deliver Ferrari the glory they have been chasing for nearly two decades.
