Former F1 Boss Urges Lewis Hamilton to Cancel Ferrari Deal

Former F1 Boss Urges Lewis Hamilton to Cancel Ferrari Deal and Walk …….read more

A former Formula 1 boss has suggested that Lewis Hamilton should reconsider his future in the sport and cancel his upcoming contract with Ferrari. The seven-time world champion is set to make a high-profile switch to the Scuderia team ahead of the 2025 season, with the move announced before the start of the current year. However, as Hamilton endures a difficult 2024 campaign with Mercedes, some industry figures, including former F1 CEO Bernie Ecclestone, believe that the Briton should call it a day on his illustrious career.

For much of the 2024 season, Hamilton has found himself in a challenging situation. Despite having won two races this year, he has struggled to match his teammate, George Russell, particularly in qualifying sessions. This has led to growing frustration as Mercedes’ car performance has been inconsistent, further adding to the pressure on Hamilton. The situation came to a head at the Brazilian Grand Prix, where Hamilton finished 11th in the sprint race and 10th in the main race after starting from 12th and 16th positions on the grid. Following the disappointing weekend, Hamilton mentioned needing a “holiday,” hinting at the possibility of taking a longer break from racing before moving to Ferrari. His cryptic remarks also raised questions about his commitment to his current team, Mercedes, and what the future might hold for him in Formula 1.

Ecclestone, who was at the helm of F1 for decades and remains an influential figure in the sport, has been vocal about Hamilton’s situation. He believes that the 39-year-old should seriously consider stepping away from the sport rather than continuing with his Ferrari contract. Ecclestone’s comments reflect his concerns about Hamilton’s current form and the prospect of him struggling to maintain his competitive edge as he gets older. The F1 mogul pointed out that Hamilton, now part of the older generation of drivers, might be better off exploring new opportunities outside of racing, especially if his performances continue to decline.

In an interview with the Daily Mail, Ecclestone emphasized the significant financial implications of Hamilton’s potential decision to walk away. While acknowledging the lucrative terms of Hamilton’s contract with Ferrari, he suggested that the bonus clauses within the deal might be more about satisfying Hamilton’s ego rather than reflecting any real financial benefit. Ecclestone also alluded to the fact that the Ferrari deal may have been driven by the desire of Ferrari’s chairman, John Elkann, to have the best driver in the world. However, Ecclestone questioned whether Elkann’s view of Hamilton had changed as the British driver’s performance has faltered in recent months.

“There’s a lot of money at stake for Lewis, but it’s possible the bonuses in his contract are there more for his peace of mind than any true reflection of his value on track,” Ecclestone said. “John Elkann probably thought he was getting the greatest driver of all time when he signed Hamilton, but whether he still feels that way now is another story. Time will tell.”

Ecclestone also expressed concern about Hamilton’s current state of mind. Despite his impressive track record in Formula 1, with multiple world titles and countless race victories, Hamilton’s recent performances have been below his usual high standards. Ecclestone suggested that if Hamilton is indeed “fading,” it might be time for him to step away from the sport. The former F1 boss advised Hamilton to explore new avenues and focus on excelling in another field, highlighting the fact that he has already achieved more than most drivers could ever dream of in their careers.

Ecclestone’s comments reflect a broader debate about the longevity of drivers’ careers in Formula 1. While age is often seen as a barrier to success in the sport, Hamilton has previously defied expectations, maintaining a high level of performance well into his 30s. However, as he enters his 40s, questions about his future in the sport have become more pressing. With his impending switch to Ferrari already announced, Hamilton’s mindset has been under scrutiny, especially as he faces mounting challenges at Mercedes and with his personal frustrations apparent in recent interviews.

Despite these concerns, Hamilton has yet to publicly indicate any intention to retire or cancel his Ferrari move. However, Ecclestone’s advice may resonate with some, especially given the struggles that have marked Hamilton’s 2024 season. Whether Hamilton continues with his Ferrari switch or decides to walk away from the sport, only time will tell how his legacy in Formula 1 will ultimately unfold.