Helmut Marko pinpoints Lewis Hamilton’s ‘WORLD CLASS’ edge ahead of Ferrari F1 move…More
Helmut Marko pinpoints Lewis Hamilton’s ‘WORLD CLASS’ edge ahead of Ferrari F1 move
Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton is set to dominate headlines as he begins a new chapter in his illustrious career during pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit this February.
In a dramatic shift, Hamilton will no longer drive a Mercedes-powered car but will instead represent Ferrari, marking one of the most significant moves in F1 history.
Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari comes after the Italian team successfully lured him away from Mercedes with a lucrative two-year contract, extendable until 2027.
This move followed Hamilton’s modest one-plus-one-year deal with Mercedes, which included exit clauses, allowing Ferrari to swoop in.
Now, the legendary driver’s hopes for an eighth world championship hinge on Ferrari’s ability to capitalize on their recent resurgence.
Ferrari showcased promising form during the latter half of the previous season, highlighted by Charles Leclerc’s stunning victory at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza.
Aided by a track-specific upgrade, Ferrari demonstrated they could outpace McLaren and close the gap to Red Bull.
Leclerc’s incredible charge from 19th to third in Abu Dhabi further underscored the team’s potential, even though McLaren’s Lando Norris ultimately secured the Constructors’ Championship for his team.
However, Ferrari’s decision to replace Carlos Sainz with Hamilton has sparked intense debate.
Critics, including former team boss Eddie Jordan, questioned the move, suggesting Ferrari should reconsider the contract, given Sainz’s talent. Now with Williams, Sainz will be eager to prove Ferrari wrong.
His standout win in Mexico City, achieved with a sensational pole lap, cemented his status as a driver capable of delivering results, even if his new team is expected to compete in the midfield.
Despite Ferrari’s upward trajectory, Hamilton enters the 2024 season with some personal challenges to address.
He was outqualified 19-5 by his Mercedes teammate George Russell during the longest season in F1 history, a statistic that contrasts sharply with Charles Leclerc’s reputation as one of the grid’s most formidable qualifiers.
Hamilton has acknowledged his shortcomings in qualifying, adding to the intrigue surrounding his upcoming partnership with Leclerc.
Still, Red Bull’s Helmut Marko believes Hamilton remains a force to be reckoned with, especially in the right circumstances.
In a recent interview with Speedweek, Marko described Hamilton as “world-class” in race conditions but noted that his motivation wavers if the car isn’t competitive.
According to Marko, Hamilton needs a machine capable of podium finishes to unlock his full potential, as he’s unlikely to fight hard for minor points.
Hamilton’s final race with Mercedes proved his ability to deliver extraordinary performances under pressure.
After an early collision forced him to drop to 16th, he staged a remarkable recovery, showcasing his trademark resilience and racecraft.
In a dramatic finale, he overtook Russell—who had started ten places ahead—on the last lap, cementing his supremacy in their three-year head-to-head battle as teammates.
As the F1 world anticipates Hamilton’s debut in Ferrari red, the storyline is set to be one of the most captivating of the season.
His rivalry with Leclerc promises fireworks, as both drivers aim to assert dominance within the team.
For Hamilton, success in this battle could pave the way for his eighth world title, a feat that would further cement his legacy as one of the greatest drivers in Formula 1 history.
While Hamilton’s move brings excitement, Ferrari faces the challenge of proving it made the right call in letting Sainz go.
Meanwhile, Sainz will be determined to lead Williams out of the midfield and establish himself as a championship contender.
With so many compelling narratives unfolding, the 2024 season promises to be one of the most thrilling in recent memory.
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