Future teammates: Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton © APA/afp / ANDREJ ISAKOVIC

Ferrari's anticipation of Hamilton: "Will give a good boost"

The attack on the top of Formula 1, especially with the help of record world champion Lewis Hamilton, was personally called for by the powerful Ferrari boss John Elkann.

09 December 2024

From: dpa

"Let's use this season as a starting point for a year in 2025 in which we are even more competitive," said Elkann to his racing team. In the season that ended on Sunday, the Scuderia had to settle for second place in the constructors' championship behind McLaren and had no chance in the battle for the drivers' title. Max Verstappen won for the fourth time in a row in the Red Bull.

Things will be different in 2025, which is why there is huge anticipation for Hamilton's arrival. "He will give us a good boost," said team boss Fred Vasseur in the Abu Dhabi paddock. "He certainly sees some things differently than we do - after his 18 years in Formula 1 and with the successes he has achieved. Such a perspective is important for our development." It is about constantly improving Ferrari in all areas. Hamilton is expected to contribute his enormous knowledge to this long-term process.

Hamilton's goal is world championship title number eight

After twelve seasons at Mercedes, 39-year-old Brit Hamilton will join the Italians in the winter. His big goal is to win his eighth world championship title. He is currently tied with Michael Schumacher with seven world championships. "Lewis will help us to continue on our successful path," said Vasseur. Hamilton's future teammate Charles Leclerc said: "Lewis has achieved so much, that will of course be a motivation."

Lewis Hamilton completed his last race for Mercedes. © APA/afp / GIUSEPPE CACACE

Hamilton said an emotional farewell to the Silver Arrows on Sunday evening and celebrated for a long time with his team before a new chapter in his successful career begins. He is moving to the Scuderia as the most successful driver in Formula 1 history; his 105 race wins and 104 pole positions are unmatched to date.