F1 Rumour: Lewis Hamilton Makes Surprising Ferrari Decision - Contract Details Reported
Following the news of Lewis Hamilton moving to Ferrari in 2025, rumours have already begun to circulate of the details of the surprising contract with the Maranello-based squad. It has now been reported by Italian media outlet Corriere della Sera, the seven-time champion could be taking a base salary drop to join Ferrari.
Key Takeaways:
- Contract Shift: Only months after committing to Mercedes with a two-year contract, Lewis Hamilton is rumoured to have activated a release clause, allowing him to leave after just one year, aligning him with Ferrari for the 2025 season, aiming for further world titles.
- Salary Adjustments: At Mercedes, Hamilton's earnings were reported at $55 million annually with a focus on a higher base salary over bonuses. The shift to Ferrari, as per Corriere della Serra, suggests a willingness to accept a lower base salary complemented by substantial performance bonuses, potentially leading to significant earnings.
- Ferrari's Financial Strategy: With the addition of Hamilton, Ferrari's investment in driver salaries is poised to skyrocket, especially when considering Charles Leclerc's escalating contract until 2029. Hamilton's potential earnings could reach 100 million euros over two seasons, with an option for a third, highlighting Ferrari's aggressive financial commitment to their drivers.
After signing a two-year extension with Mercedes last summer, Hamilton's early exit is a testament to the ever-evolving dynamics of the sport. The move to Ferrari, as reported, involves a lower base salary for Hamilton but with the lure of significant performance bonuses.
Hamilton's decision reflects not just a career move but a strategic gamble, banking on Ferrari's capabilities and his own talent to secure further glory in the racing world. This move would not only shake the foundations of Formula 1's team alignments but also underscore the financial intricacies and strategic decisions underpinning the sport. The contract with Ferrari, reportedly worth 40 million euros per season with the possibility of extensive bonuses, illustrates the high stakes involved, as well as Ferrari's commitment to securing top talent.
Ferrari's financial outlay, particularly in the context of their contract with Charles Leclerc, who is also expected to see his salary increase through to 2029, indicates a bold strategy to dominate the sport through significant investment in driver talent.