Ferrari Issues Statement on Driver Lineup Amid 2025 Rumors
Ferrari has addressed speculation surrounding its driver lineup for the 2025 Formula 1 season, confirming significant changes. While current driver Carlos Sainz has delivered a strong 2024 campaign, including two impressive race victories, the team has chosen not to extend his contract. Instead, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton will join Ferrari, partnering with Charles Leclerc.
Sainz has been a formidable competitor alongside Leclerc, consistently challenging his teammate during race weekends. Despite Ferrari’s recent resurgence in pace, which has enabled them to contend for race victories and a potential first Constructors’ Championship since 2008, the team is moving forward with its new driver pairing for 2025.
The decision to bring in Hamilton marks a major shift for the Italian outfit. His signing adds significant experience and prestige to the team as they aim to reclaim dominance in Formula 1. For Sainz, the remainder of the 2024 season provides an opportunity to exit Ferrari on a high note, potentially contributing to a historic championship push.
While the main driver lineup for 2025 is now finalized with Hamilton and Leclerc, Ferrari is also undergoing changes in its reserve driver roles. British teenager Ollie Bearman, currently in Ferrari’s Driver Academy, is set to secure his first full-time Formula 1 seat with Haas in 2025. Meanwhile, Ferrari’s other reserve driver, Robert Shwartzman, will make a move to the United States to compete in the IndyCar Series with Prema Racing.
This reshuffling has sparked speculation about Ferrari’s next choice for a reserve driver. Recent rumors suggested the team was considering Zhou Guanyu, who is leaving Sauber at the end of the 2024 season. Zhou’s departure follows a difficult year where he failed to score a single point, leaving his future in Formula 1 uncertain. Reports from Italian media hinted that Ferrari might offer Zhou a second chance in the sport, potentially as a reserve driver for Hamilton and Leclerc.
However, Ferrari has officially denied these claims. A representative told GPFans that there are no plans to bring Zhou into the team as a reserve driver, dismissing the speculation.
Ferrari’s focus appears firmly set on its primary drivers, Hamilton and Leclerc, as well as supporting the development of its young talents like Bearman and Shwartzman in external opportunities. This strategic approach reflects the team’s ambition to combine experience with nurturing future stars, ensuring long-term success both on and off the track.
As the 2024 season nears its conclusion, Ferrari remains in a strong position to challenge for race wins and potentially secure championship titles. The addition of Hamilton, paired with the continued growth of Leclerc, represents a bold step for Ferrari as it looks to cement itself as a frontrunner in Formula 1 once again.
Meanwhile, Sainz will be aiming to maximize the remaining races of 2024, hoping to leave Ferrari with his reputation enhanced and his contributions to the team’s resurgence duly recognized. With these developments, Ferrari’s 2025 season is already shaping up to be one of high expectations and intense focus.
