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Binotto Questions Timing of Hamilton’s Ferrari Move Amid Struggles
Former Ferrari Formula 1 team principal Mattia Binotto has cast doubt on Lewis Hamilton’s ability to make a major impact at Ferrari, suggesting the seven-time world champion may have joined the team too late in his career to deliver the results both parties were hoping for. Binotto, who led the Scuderia from 2019 to 2022, acknowledged Hamilton’s extraordinary career achievements but questioned whether the timing of his move aligns with Ferrari’s current needs.
Hamilton’s dramatic switch from Mercedes to Ferrari was officially confirmed in January, sending ripples through the motorsport world. After more than ten years with Mercedes — a partnership that yielded six world championships and cemented his legacy as one of the sport’s greatest drivers — his move to Maranello marked the end of an era. The pairing of F1’s most successful driver with its most storied team generated massive excitement, with fans and commentators anticipating a potentially championship-winning combination.
However, the reality since Hamilton’s arrival has been far from the dream scenario envisioned by many. Ferrari’s performance has been inconsistent, and Hamilton himself has yet to fully adapt to the new machinery and team dynamics. As a result, podiums have been scarce, and the team continues to chase race-winning pace while rival teams surge ahead. According to Binotto, the main issue may not be Hamilton’s skill but rather the stage of his career at which he’s made this change.
Binotto pointed out that while Hamilton’s presence brings undeniable benefits — such as experience, leadership, technical input, and media spotlight — Ferrari ultimately needs more than those intangibles. They require consistent on-track results. He hinted that at 40 years old and with his best racing years potentially behind him, Hamilton may struggle to keep up with younger, hungrier rivals who are currently in their prime.
Despite this, Binotto did not entirely dismiss Hamilton’s influence. He praised the British driver’s vast experience and noted that his championship mindset could still play a valuable role in helping the team evolve. However, he emphasized that Ferrari cannot rely on name recognition alone. Success in modern Formula 1 depends on execution, technical innovation, and raw performance — areas where Hamilton and Ferrari have yet to click in 2025.
As the season unfolds, scrutiny is intensifying. Both Hamilton and Ferrari are under pressure to prove that their high-profile partnership is not just symbolic but capable of delivering tangible success. While some believe Hamilton can still rise to the occasion, others — like Binotto — remain skeptical, suggesting that the timing might simply be off.
Binotto’s comments serve as a sobering reminder of Formula 1’s unforgiving nature. Even the most decorated drivers must contend with the realities of age, adaptation, and timing. Whether Hamilton can defy those odds and lead Ferrari back to championship glory remains one of the biggest storylines of the season.
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