Lewis Hamilton receives Ferrari warning with ‘real deal’ threat… read more
Lewis Hamilton has been warned that Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc will be a formidable opponent in the upcoming Formula 1 season. Martin Brundle, former F1 driver and commentator, emphasized that Leclerc is “the real deal” and has become a much stronger competitor, having reduced his mistakes on the track.
Both Ferrari drivers participated in the team’s traditional “wake-up” test at Fiorano last week, marking the beginning of their preparations for the 2025 season. The event, which saw hundreds of fans gathered outside Ferrari’s private test track, was also Hamilton’s first opportunity to drive a Ferrari car, with the seven-time World Champion taking 30 laps in a 2023 model. This test session was especially significant as it marked the start of his highly anticipated partnership with Leclerc at Ferrari.
While Hamilton brings a wealth of experience, including numerous race wins and world titles, Leclerc enters this season on the back of his most successful year to date, having claimed three race victories and achieved his highest-ever points total in 2024. Brundle pointed out that Leclerc has now found a more consistent rhythm, having addressed some of his previous tendencies to push too hard and crash. “Charles is fast, and he’s stopped crashing a little bit, which had been a problem before,” Brundle said. “But now, he’s the real deal, and he’ll take some beating.”
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has generated immense excitement, with the Briton describing his first laps in the Ferrari as “one of the best feelings” of his life. Brundle, reflecting on Hamilton’s experience, noted the unique appeal of driving for Ferrari, which holds a special place in motorsport. “It’s a different world when you’re driving for Ferrari,” he explained. “You’re not just driving for a team, but for a nation, with all the expectations, politics, and media attention that come with it.” While the car itself might be made of the same materials as any other F1 car, the symbolism of driving for Ferrari makes it a special experience, Brundle added.
Hamilton’s Fiorano test was just the beginning, as he will continue his preparations at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya this week. Ferrari has reportedly booked the track for three days to ensure both Hamilton and Leclerc are fully ready for the season ahead. As the pair get to grips with their new roles as teammates, the internal battle at Ferrari promises to be one of the most captivating stories of the 2025 season.
