Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton.
Lewis Hamilton has admitted he’s feeling somewhat daunted by the prospect of switching to Ferrari, although is welcoming the challenge that awaits him.
Hamilton, who has spent over ten years with Mercedes and formed the most victorious driver/team combination in F1’s history, decides to depart from the Brackley-based team and join Ferrari for the upcoming F1 2025 season.
Lewis Hamilton expecting Ferrari to be ‘massively different’
Having switched to Ferrari on a new three-year contract, Hamilton is expected to receive an increase in salary. Additionally, this move ensures the continuation of his Mission 44 initiative and grants him an ambassadorship position with the Ferrari brand, securing his future prospects.
But the seven-time F1 World Champion has been reluctant to talk too much about what lies ahead of him, out of respect for his current employer Mercedes as Hamilton gives him final season with the team his all – the British Grand Prix delivering upon the potential that had emerged in recent races through car upgrades as Hamilton romped to victory for his first win in almost three years.
In an interview with Sky F1 prior to the upcoming weekend, Hamilton discussed his transition to a new team in 2025 and confessed to feeling some apprehension about adapting to a different environment. He has been associated with Mercedes power for the majority of his career, spanning over two decades, including his time at McLaren from 2007 to 2012.
Hamilton expressed his anticipation for the upcoming new experience, acknowledging that it may be intimidating due to its unfamiliarity and the challenges it presents. However, he also mentioned his fondness for challenges.
“I anticipate a significant contrast. Both teams I have been associated with were British, so transitioning to Italy means immersing myself in an entirely distinct culture.”
When considering the British, it is evident that they tend to be reserved and composed during times of success, as well as remaining relaxed and laid-back during difficult days. On the other hand, Italians are known for their emotional nature and display of heightened emotions.
“The culture is vastly distinct. While I can’t accurately predict what to anticipate, having competed in Italy gives me the notion that it will be remarkably contrasting, yet remarkable and distinctive in certain aspects.”
Hamilton expressed his anticipation of the unusual experience that awaits him when he competes head-to-head against the Mercedes cars, with whom he has shared a close bond for the past 12 years.
He mentioned that he believes everything will feel unfamiliar since he has been with Mercedes for such a long time, so it will be an exceedingly peculiar experience.
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Lewis Hamilton: No fear of becoming an ‘outsider’ at Mercedes
Heading into his last months as a Mercedes F1 driver, the seven-time F1 World Champion expressed his belief that the team’s atmosphere won’t undergo any significant alterations as they strive to move forward without his contribution.
Hamilton was questioned about whether he anticipates being left out as the team concentrates on enhancing the 2025 car’s performance, a piece of information that the team would rather he didn’t possess when he switches sides. In response, Hamilton mentioned that he hasn’t been compelled to distance himself just yet.
“He said, ‘I don’t believe so.'”
“Thus far, I have actively engaged and immersed myself in the car’s development. I strongly believe that this approach is indispensable for our success this year.”
“I haven’t hidden anything from them, and they haven’t hidden anything from me. I genuinely desire the success of the team, even in my absence.”
“With the recent success we’ve achieved, I personally feel incredibly grateful and proud to be a contributing member.”
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