Ferrari chairman John Elkann has dismissed discuss that Lewis Hamilton’s shock transfer to Ferrari is merely a ‘showpiece’ transfer earlier than heading off into retirement.
Whereas the shock information of the seven-time champion’s transfer to Maranello stirred curiosity within the 2025 season earlier than a wheel had even turned in anger in 2024, some opined that it was all a part of Liberty’s seemingly script-driven plans for the game, in any case what higher situation than F1’s arguably most well-known driver becoming a member of its most iconic staff.
Nevertheless, that was whereas Mercedes nonetheless gave the impression to be in a rut, and Hamilton appeared destined for a 3rd win-less season.
Since then, the Silver Arrows have come good, and the seven-time champ has notched up two wins within the final three races.
Talking to Corriere dello Sport nonetheless, Elkann insists that, Mercedes resurgence apart, signing Hamilton was by no means about having the game’s most profitable driver on board for a 12 months or two, milking the assorted advertising and marketing alternatives till he hung up his helmet and headed off into racing retirement.
“Some issues occur in a short time,” he mentioned, when requested if securing Hamilton had been difficult. “This was the second when he and Ferrari discovered one another.
“He desires to win the eighth title,” he added, “Ferrari desires to win and with Lewis, they’re stronger. He does not come to Ferrari to get pleasure from his retirement, and it is necessary to have motivated individuals round, who wish to win.”
Regardless of his age – Hamilton could have turned 40 when the wraps are taken off his 2025 contender – Elkann believes the Briton’s expertise will likely be a significant factor.
“In Formulation 1 there may be actual competitors now, with 4 groups very shut, Purple Bull, Ferrari, McLaren, Mercedes,” he mentioned. “It is very important at all times go to the utmost of your potential. These with extra expertise have extra consistency, as demonstrated by Hamilton and likewise Alonso, and consistency counts.”
To show his level, the Italian cites examples outdoors F1, pointing to the likes of Novak Djokovic and Roger Federer.
“With dedication and sacrifice they’re overcoming the bodily limits because of age,” he mentioned. “It’s also true that we’re in a historic part through which we reside longer and likewise the careers of athletes are lengthening.”
