Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari’s Warning Set the Stage for...

Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari’s Warning Set the Stage for… see more

Formula 1 is poised for another thrilling Abu Dhabi title showdown in 2025, with Tom Coronel predicting a repeat of the dramatic 2021 season finale. With Lewis Hamilton making his high-profile switch to Ferrari, the British driver is preparing to challenge Max Verstappen for the championship once again in what could be one of the most intense battles in F1 history.

Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has sparked excitement and debate throughout the paddock, with many believing that this change could reignite the seven-time World Champion’s form. Since 2021, when Hamilton came within one lap of securing his record-breaking eighth title, Verstappen has dominated the sport, securing four consecutive championships with Red Bull. However, with Ferrari showing signs of improvement, and Hamilton’s unparalleled experience, 2025 could see a genuine title fight between the two racing titans.

Recalling the 2021 Controversy

The 2021 season is remembered as one of the most thrilling and controversial title fights in F1 history. After an intense season of wheel-to-wheel racing between Verstappen and Hamilton, the championship came down to the final race in Abu Dhabi. Hamilton was leading the race heading into the last lap and appeared set to secure his eighth title. However, a controversial decision by then-race director Michael Masi changed the course of history.

Masi allowed only the lapped cars between Hamilton and Verstappen to un-lap themselves before restarting the race with just one lap remaining. This put Verstappen, who was on much fresher tyres, directly behind Hamilton for the restart. The Dutch driver capitalized on this advantage, making a decisive move at Turn 5 to take the lead and ultimately win his first World Championship. The controversial decision sparked outrage from Hamilton’s fans and Mercedes, with many believing the outcome had been unfairly influenced.

Since then, Verstappen and Red Bull have been nearly untouchable, with the Dutchman securing four consecutive championships from 2021 to 2024. Meanwhile, Hamilton and Mercedes struggled under the new ground-effect aerodynamic regulations, preventing him from mounting a serious challenge for the title.

Hamilton’s Ferrari Gamble

Frustrated with Mercedes’ performance, Hamilton made a shocking decision to leave the team that helped him win six of his seven World Championships. His move to Ferrari marks one of the most high-profile transfers in F1 history. Ferrari, the most iconic team in motorsport, has shown glimpses of competitiveness but has not won a drivers’ title since Kimi Räikkönen’s triumph in 2007.

With Hamilton’s experience and talent, many believe Ferrari could finally return to the top. The Scuderia has been making significant improvements in recent seasons, and with new leadership and continued development, 2025 could be their best chance in years to secure a championship.