Mercedes ‘give up’ on Hamilton after TORRID F1…read more
Former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone has recently shared his views on Mercedes’ apparent decision to “give up” on Lewis Hamilton after what has been a challenging season for the team and driver. He suggests that Hamilton, who has faced a difficult year, might be ready to walk away from Mercedes as he reportedly prepares to join Ferrari. Ecclestone, however, has raised doubts about Hamilton’s future success with Ferrari, forecasting a tough road ahead for the seven-time world champion.
Hamilton’s anticipated move to Ferrari would bring an end to a decade-long relationship with Mercedes, where he has achieved six of his seven titles, making him one of Formula 1’s most successful drivers. Mercedes and Hamilton’s partnership has yielded unprecedented success, with the team dominating much of the last decade, though recent seasons have shown a dip in performance. Ecclestone sees Hamilton’s potential Ferrari chapter as lacking the same stability and focus that characterized his time with Mercedes.
Ecclestone believes Hamilton’s quest to achieve an eighth world title with Ferrari—surpassing the record held by Michael Schumacher—will be an uphill battle, particularly because of Ferrari’s dedication to Charles Leclerc. The 26-year-old driver has established himself as Ferrari’s main figure over the past seasons, and, as Ecclestone notes, Ferrari’s loyalty may lie strongly with Leclerc. The team’s commitment to the young driver stems not only from his talent but also from his status as a homegrown star, which carries significant weight with Ferrari’s leadership and fanbase.
When asked if Hamilton could realistically clinch an eighth world championship with Ferrari, Ecclestone responded skeptically, doubting Hamilton’s chances. He explained that Ferrari is likely to back Leclerc, who has not only proven himself as a quick and capable driver but has also developed a close association with the team. “I don’t think it will be easy for Lewis,” Ecclestone stated. “Especially in that team. They will back Charles Leclerc. He’s quick and has grown up there. They won’t dump him for anyone.”
The challenge for Hamilton could involve taking on a secondary role at Ferrari if the team prioritizes Leclerc, which might stifle his chances of achieving that elusive eighth title. Ecclestone’s remarks highlight a potential shift in Hamilton’s career as he embarks on a journey with Ferrari, one of the sport’s most iconic teams, but one that may not provide him the number-one driver status he has become accustomed to. With Hamilton’s future in Ferrari appearing uncertain, fans are left wondering how the driver will navigate this new chapter amid these growing questions.
