Valtteri Bottas reveals ‘trigger’ in Lewis Hamilton’s switch…read more
Valtteri Bottas has discussed the potential impact of Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, suggesting that the switch could serve as a “good trigger” for the seven-time World Champion as he aims for an unprecedented eighth Formula 1 title.
After spending 12 years with Mercedes, including five seasons as Hamilton’s teammate, Bottas is intrigued by the dynamics of Hamilton’s new chapter with Ferrari. Hamilton’s decision to join the Scuderia marks a significant shift in his career, as he looks to take on a fresh challenge in the quest for a record-breaking eighth title. The news of Hamilton’s move has generated massive excitement and attention across the motorsport world, with fans eager to see how this new partnership with Ferrari unfolds.
Hamilton has recently experienced several key moments in his transition, including his first photo session in a Ferrari race suit, his initial visit to the team’s Maranello headquarters, and his first laps in a Ferrari F1 car. These “firsts” have dominated the headlines, adding to the excitement surrounding his new journey. Bottas, who shared a close working relationship with Hamilton during their time together at Mercedes, expressed his curiosity about the transition, acknowledging that the change could provide Hamilton with renewed motivation and drive.
“I’m sure he’s highly motivated for the year ahead,” Bottas remarked. “It’s something new and refreshing for him, which can be a good trigger sometimes.” Bottas also noted his interest in seeing how Hamilton will collaborate with Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc, as the team aims to challenge for a title in the 2025 season.
For Ferrari, the 2025 campaign is crucial as the team seeks to end its lengthy wait for a World Championship, the last of which came in 2007 with Kimi Raikkonen. Despite strong performances from drivers like Felipe Massa, Fernando Alonso, Sebastian Vettel, and Leclerc, the team has fallen short in its pursuit of another title. Expectations are particularly high for this season, given Hamilton’s arrival and the progress the team showed in 2024, with Ferrari securing five victories.
Reports indicate that Ferrari has made significant improvements to their SF-25 car, notably with a new aerodynamic design that features a pull-rod front suspension. This modification aims to improve airflow, reduce drag, and enhance downforce, giving the car a more competitive edge. Notably, the pull-rod suspension layout is something Hamilton is familiar with from his time at Mercedes.
However, the competition remains fierce, with Red Bull’s Max Verstappen gunning for a fifth consecutive Drivers’ Championship title, while the team also aims to regain both the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships. McLaren, too, is pushing hard to add a World Championship to their 2024 Constructors’ title. With all these factors in play, the 2025 season is set to be an exciting and unpredictable one, and all eyes will be on how Hamilton fares in his new Ferrari journey.
