F1 News: Lewis Hamilton Opens Up On Michael Schumacher Influence In Ferrari Move
Lewis Hamilton has shared insights into his unexpected transition to Ferrari, set for 2025. The seven-time F1 champion reflects on the significant influence Michael Schumacher had on his decision, marking a pivotal moment in his career.
Key Takeaways:
- Hamilton acknowledges the challenge in leaving Mercedes, crediting the team for their collective achievements but feels compelled to pursue a new chapter with Ferrari.
- The decision was partly inspired by Hamilton's admiration for Michael Schumacher and the iconic status of driving for Ferrari, a dream influenced since his youth.
- Hamilton's move to Ferrari is seen as a major shift in the F1 landscape, potentially altering team dynamics and influencing future championship battles.
Lewis Hamilton's announcement of joining Ferrari from the 2025 season sent ripples through the Formula 1 world. The decision, described by Hamilton as the most difficult of his career, ends his long and successful tenure with Mercedes. In conversation with Auto Motor und Sport, Hamilton detailed the complex emotions and motivations behind his move, highlighting the profound impact of F1 legend Michael Schumacher on his career aspirations.
Hamilton reminisced about his formative years, where Schumacher's dominance in the sport left an indelible mark on him. The allure of Ferrari, encapsulated in its storied history and the fervour of its fans, especially in Italy, played a significant role in Hamilton's decision. The British driver explained:
"I saw my future with Mercedes back then. But then new opportunities opened up at the turn of the year and I decided to take advantage of them. That was it the hardest decision of my life.
"I am proud of what we have achieved with Mercedes. But I had the feeling that now the time had come to write a new chapter.
"Like all drivers, I watched Michael Schumacher in my youth in his heyday. You think about what it would be like to drive in red one day. When I played Formula 1 on the computer, I always competed as Michael. Then you see the many fans at the races in Italy.
"I've never been to Maranello. I bought my first Ferrari in 2010, as a gift to myself. But I quickly sold it. When I went to Mercedes, I thought it wasn't looking good."
The switch to Ferrari is not merely a personal milestone for Hamilton but also represents a seismic shift within Formula 1. Mercedes, with whom Hamilton clinched his latest world title in 2020, faces the end of an era as they prepare for life post-Hamilton.