BREAKING NEWS: Ferrari Chairman Sets High… for Lewis Hamilton’s F1…read more.
Ferrari Chairman Sets High… for Lewis Hamilton’s F1…read more.
Ferrari’s chairman, John Elkann, has made it clear that the legendary Formula 1 team is not merely a “retirement home” for Lewis Hamilton as the seven-time world champion prepares to embark on a new chapter in his illustrious career. Hamilton will join Ferrari for the upcoming season, seeking one last push to secure a long-awaited eighth F1 title before his retirement.
By the time Hamilton makes his debut in Ferrari’s iconic red overalls, he will have already turned 40. His arrival in Maranello represents a pivotal moment for both the driver and the team, but it’s unlikely to be a long-term partnership. Ferrari has not claimed a Constructors’ Championship title since 2008—the same year Hamilton won his first Drivers’ Championship with McLaren. Despite close calls over the years, success has eluded the sport’s most famous team, casting doubts on whether Hamilton can reach his ultimate goal.
However, Elkann emphasized that Ferrari’s expectations remain sky-high. The team is still focused on winning, and they are counting on Hamilton’s extensive experience and skill to give them an edge. Speaking to *Corriere dello Sport*, Elkann shared his optimism about the partnership. “This was the moment when he and Ferrari found each other. He wants to win the eighth title, Ferrari wants to win, and with Lewis, they are stronger,” said the chairman.
Elkann was quick to clarify that Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is not just a victory lap in the twilight of his career. “He doesn’t come to Ferrari to enjoy his retirement,” Elkann said, stressing the importance of surrounding Hamilton with a motivated team that shares his hunger for success. Despite Ferrari’s recent struggles, the chairman believes that the competition in Formula 1 has become fiercer, with four teams—Red Bull, Ferrari, McLaren, and Mercedes—all in contention.
Hamilton’s consistency and experience could be the key to unlocking Ferrari’s potential, according to Elkann. Drawing parallels to other elite athletes who have extended their careers beyond what many thought possible, Elkann cited the longevity and dedication of sports icons such as Roger Federer, Simone Biles, Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, and Olympic swimmer Gregorio Paltrinieri. “With dedication and sacrifice, they are overcoming the physical limits due to age,” Elkann said. “We are in a historical phase in which we live longer, and also the careers of athletes are lengthening.”
Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari is seen as a bold move, given the team’s recent lack of success compared to rivals like Red Bull and Mercedes. Yet, for Hamilton, Ferrari represents more than just another team—it’s an opportunity to etch his name further into the annals of Formula 1 history. Winning an eighth world championship with Ferrari would solidify his legacy as one of the greatest drivers of all time, rivaling Michael Schumacher’s dominance with the same team.
But the road to victory is uncertain. Ferrari has struggled in recent years, with a combination of technical issues, strategic errors, and inconsistent performances from both drivers and the team. Despite this, Hamilton’s arrival brings hope to the Scuderia’s passionate fan base, who are desperate for the team to return to its winning ways.
Elkann remains confident that Hamilton’s presence will elevate the team. Ferrari’s management is banking on his ability to consistently perform at the highest level, drawing on his decades of experience and unmatched racing instincts. “In Formula 1, there is real competition now,” Elkann noted, highlighting how closely matched the top teams have become. “It is important to always go to the maximum of your potential—those with more experience have more consistency, as demonstrated by Hamilton and also [43-year-old Fernando] Alonso himself. And consistency counts.”
Ultimately, Ferrari is not just placing their hopes on Hamilton’s talent—they believe that his mentality and approach to the sport can inspire the entire team to reach new heights. Elkann’s comments make it clear that the team’s ambitions have not diminished, despite years of frustration. With Hamilton leading the charge, Ferrari aims to reestablish itself as a dominant force in Formula 1, chasing glory one more time.
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