F1 News: Alonso Questions Hamilton's Ferrari Move - "Not His Childhood Dream 12 Months Ago"
Fernando Alonso has cast doubt on Lewis Hamilton's recent claim that joining Ferrari was a lifelong aspiration, suggesting a change in narrative from the British driver. Alonso also highlighted the potential for Hamilton's move to bolster Ferrari's championship ambitions by 2025.
Key Takeaways:
- Alonso believes Hamilton's switch to Ferrari could make the Italian team a title contender by 2025.
- The Spaniard remains committed to Aston Martin as his "first priority" but acknowledges the opportunity Hamilton's departure creates at Mercedes.
- Alonso questions the authenticity of Hamilton's "childhood dream" to drive for Ferrari, hinting at a recent shift in allegiance from Mercedes.
Spanish Formula One driver Fernando Alonso has expressed skepticism regarding Lewis Hamilton's recent assertion that moving to Ferrari was a dream from his youth. The Spaniard's remarks came amid discussions about the potential impact Hamilton's transfer could have on Ferrari's performance, possibly turning the team into title contenders by the year 2025.
Alonso, who has had a distinguished career in Formula 1, including a tenure with Ferrari, emphasised his commitment to his current team, Aston Martin. He stated that his primary focus would remain with Aston Martin if he continues in the sport beyond this season, despite the enticing prospect of filling the vacancy left by Hamilton at Mercedes.
During his interview with BBC, Alonso reflected on Ferrari's recent performances, noting the team's strong showing in the latter part of the previous season. He pointed out that Ferrari had outpaced Red Bull in terms of pole positions in the final five races, underscoring the competitiveness of their car.
"[During the past few years] Ferrari had a very fast car and were fighting for big things.
"Maybe Lewis can bring that extra to fight for the championship. The car is there.
"Even last year, with a very dominant Red Bull car, Ferrari were able to match the lap time and be faster than them in most of the qualifyings, so the car should be fast enough."
However, Alonso raised doubts about the genuineness of Hamilton's proclaimed lifelong ambition to race for Ferrari, alluding to Hamilton's previous expressions of loyalty to Mercedes.
"It was not his childhood dream 12 months ago, no? Or two months ago I guess, because it was a different dream then," Alonso quipped.
Although Hamilton has insisted in recent years that he would end his career with the Brackley-based squad, unearthed footage and interviews have been re-released since his shock announcement of Hamilton discussing moving to Ferrari at some point.