F1 News: Ferrari President Opens Up On Lewis Hamilton - "Can Do Great Things"
Ferrari president John Elkann looks forward to Lewis Hamilton's 2025 Ferrari switch to do "great things". He praised Lewis as a phenomenal driver, acknowledging his significant contributions to Formula 1 throughout the years.
Key Takeaways:
- Ferrari president John Elkann eagerly awaits Lewis Hamilton's 2025 move to Ferrari, praising Hamilton's talent and contributions to Formula 1.
- Hamilton's surprise transition from Mercedes to Ferrari for the following year suggests Elkann's significant role in finalizing the deal.
- Reflecting on recent achievements, Elkann highlights Ferrari's success at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and emphasizes the importance of competitiveness amidst evolving Formula 1 regulations in 2026.
Last month, Hamilton surprised the world by announcing his move from Mercedes to Ferrari for the following year. It is speculated that Elkann played a significant role in finalizing the deal, having personally reached out to the seven-time world champion.
Speaking to Sky Sports F1 about Hamilton's Ferrari switch, Elkann said:
"I have always said over the years how much Lewis is a great driver, how much he has done for F1.
“He will join Ferrari and this is a sign of how much he believes he can do great things with us.”
Speaking further about the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, where Leclerc secured the podium in P3, and the other positive attributes that made him proud, he said:
"It was a great race.
“We finished on the podium, Leclerc did the fastest lap and Bearman, the youngest Ferrari driver in F1 in our history who immediately scored points.
“And then Sainz who came here after being operated on. This shows great team spirit.
“I am very proud and I thank everyone who worked to obtain this important result."
Elkann also commented on Oliver Bearman, the British driver who substituted for Carlos Sainz in Jeddah and achieved seventh place, noting Hamilton's positive reception towards him. He added:
"If one thinks he can stay ahead of Hamilton and Lando Norris on his debut, I think Oliver will remember this for his whole life.
“The hug that Lewis wanted to give him shows what a great champion he is on and off the track."
Speaking on the new Formula 1 regulations that kick in in 2026, a year after Hamilton's entry, Elkann suggested the beginning of a new cycle and emphasized the need to be ever-competitive. He said:
"2026 will be a cycle that closes, then another will open.
“The important thing will be to always be competitive and continue to fuel this spirit."