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Toto Wolff explains why Lewis Hamilton will not make Ferrari debut in Abu Dhabi
Toto Wolff, Mercedes team principal, explained why Lewis Hamilton will not make an early debut with Ferrari during the Abu Dhabi post-season test, despite Ferrari granting Carlos Sainz permission to drive for Williams in the same session.
Hamilton, who has signed a multi-year deal with Ferrari starting in 2025, will remain committed to Mercedes for the time being, with no plans to participate in the test under Ferrari colors.
The Abu Dhabi post-season test is a chance for drivers switching teams to familiarize themselves with their new setups ahead of the next season.
Ferrari released Sainz, whom Hamilton will replace, to test for Williams, his new team.
However, Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur revealed he did not approach Wolff to request a similar arrangement for Hamilton.
“They have a contract. I did not even ask Toto,” Vasseur said during a press conference at the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
He emphasized that Ferrari’s decision to release Sainz does not imply other teams must follow suit with their drivers.
Wolff confirmed there was only a brief discussion with Hamilton about the possibility of an early Ferrari debut. However, Hamilton’s busy schedule with Mercedes made it unfeasible.
Wolff explained that Hamilton is deeply involved in a series of post-season activities, including sponsor commitments and a farewell program marking his departure from Mercedes after a decade of success with the team.
These obligations left no room for Hamilton to test with Ferrari in Abu Dhabi.
“Fred didn’t ask,” Wolff stated, adding, “We have contractual agreements with sponsors, and we’re organizing a farewell for Lewis.
There are lots of activities planned. When Lewis and I spoke about it briefly, we both agreed it wouldn’t work.”
The Mercedes boss highlighted the difference between Hamilton moving to Ferrari and Sainz transitioning to Williams.
He suggested that Ferrari’s decision to release Sainz for the test doesn’t set a precedent for all teams to follow.
Ultimately, Wolff believed Vasseur was not particularly disappointed by Hamilton’s absence from the test.
As Hamilton prepares to join Ferrari in 2025, he remains fully focused on completing his responsibilities with Mercedes.
The seven-time World Champion leaves behind an extraordinary legacy at the Silver Arrows, including numerous race wins and record-breaking achievements.
While fans may have to wait until the next season to see Hamilton in Ferrari red, his impending move promises to bring a fresh chapter to the storied Italian team.
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