Bernie Ecclestone Warns Lewis Hamilton to Rethink Ferrari Move

Bernie Ecclestone Warns Lewis Hamilton to Rethink Ferrari Move Amid Challenging Season

Formula 1 icon Bernie Ecclestone has advised Lewis Hamilton to reconsider his rumored Ferrari deal, urging the seven-time world champion to “tear it up” if he doubts his competitive edge against soon-to-be teammate Charles Leclerc. This recommendation comes after a challenging 2024 season for Hamilton, despite his memorable victories at Silverstone and Spa-Francorchamps, which brought some bright moments in an otherwise tough campaign.

This year, Hamilton has faced significant competition from his Mercedes teammate, George Russell, especially during qualifying sessions. Statistics reveal that Russell has outperformed Hamilton in 20 qualifying sessions, including both traditional Grand Prix qualifiers and sprint shootouts, leaving Hamilton ahead only six times. This disparity on Saturdays highlights an area of struggle for Hamilton, once renowned for his qualifying prowess.

As Hamilton prepares to join Ferrari, he faces the added challenge of competing alongside Leclerc, known for his qualifying skills. The Monegasque driver has secured 26 pole positions and eight Grand Prix victories, marking him as one of the sport’s best qualifiers in recent years. Ecclestone believes Ferrari’s long-standing support for Leclerc, who has matured within the team, will mean Hamilton could play a secondary role in their dynamic.

“I don’t think it will be easy for Lewis. Especially in that team,” Ecclestone told the Daily Mail. “They will back Charles Leclerc. He’s quick and has grown up there. They won’t dump him for anyone.”

From Ecclestone’s perspective, Hamilton’s decision to part ways with Mercedes might have been inevitable. The partnership, which produced remarkable success, seems to have reached a breaking point. “Either he’s given up with them or they have given up on him. They wouldn’t do much to keep him, so he is better off going,” Ecclestone added, noting that a fresh start with Ferrari could offer Hamilton a new chapter, albeit with fresh obstacles.

With the move to Ferrari set to test Hamilton’s adaptability, Ecclestone’s advice raises important questions about the future for one of F1’s greatest champions.