Hamilton’s Ferrari move not a F1 retirement strategy – Elkann

In a move that has sent effects through the F1 world, Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, will leave Mercedes at the end of the year to join Ferrari, uniting with Charles Leclerc. This decision, which has led to the departure of the in-form Carlos Sainz from the Italian F1 squad.

The Italian automotive gain, Ferrari’s chairman John Elkann has been quick to quash any speculation that Hamilton’s switch to the iconic Italian team is a precursor to his retirement. “He is certainly not coming to Ferrari to enjoy retirement,” Elkann highlighted to La Gazzetta dello Sport.

This statement comes amid growing discussions about Hamilton’s future in the sport, especially as the British driver approaches his 40th birthday. Despite his age, Hamilton’s determination to secure an unprecedented eighth world championship remains undiminished.

Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko remarked on Sainz’s situation, expressing sympathy for the Spaniard. “It’s tragic that he (Sainz) is having his best season at Ferrari and is not getting a seat in a top team,” Marko remarked to Speed Week. Sainz’s move to Williams, however, could be temporary, with a potential escape clause in his contract allowing for a transfer to a higher-placed team.

Despite Hamilton’s occasional musings on retirement, he remains focused on the challenge ahead. In an interview with Esquire, Hamilton reflected on his career strategy, saying, “I do have mentally a plan of where I would like to extend to. I’ve just got to strategise and sequence things.”

Leclerc, for his part, sees Hamilton’s arrival as a valuable opportunity. “It’s going to be a great opportunity to learn from one of the best ever,” he told Gentleman’s Journal. The Monegasque driver also expressed his eagerness to prove himself alongside the seasoned champion.

The new Ferrari pairing is expected to draw significant attention next season, with many curious about how the relationship between the two drivers will unfold. Former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya offered his perspective to *F1 Maximaal*, saying, “I think they will build a good relationship. I think it will definitely be interesting, and it will definitely be interesting how Ferrari is going to manage that situation.”

Montoya also noted the stark difference in achievements between the two drivers, highlighting the potential for a competitive edge. “Lewis has won seven world titles. How many wins does Charles have? Six? In what, six years? Both drivers will be fascinating to follow. We’ll find out,” he concluded.

As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on Ferrari, not only to see how Hamilton and Leclerc will work together but also to determine if Hamilton’s move will bring the success that both he and Ferrari crave.