F1 News: Lewis Hamilton Branded As Sport's "Single Superstar" In Mercedes Warning

The former Mercedes head of motorsport, Norbert Haug, has warned that Mercedes has a lot more to lose after the 2024 season with the exit of "F1 Superstar" Lewis Hamilton. The former chief suggests that the seven-time world champion is not just another driver to leave the team but an icon that will be well received by Ferrari next year.

Hamilton shocked the world, including Haug, by announcing early this month that 2024 will be his last year with Mercedes. The 39-year-old made a surprise switch to Ferrari, scheduled for 2025, citing that it was his childhood dream to race for the Maranello outfit.

Apart from his stellar on-track performances, Haug feels that Hamilton will pass on to Ferrari his platform as a prominent advocate for diversity, inclusivity, and equal opportunity.

His venture, Mission 44, is "a charitable foundation launched to build a more inclusive education system, support progression into STEM and empower young people", stands as tangible evidence of his deep commitment to his cause.

From the perspective of Haug, this quality distinguishes him as the true superstar. Speaking to Motorsport-Magazin.com, he was asked if Mercedes would lose more than just one world-class Formula 1 driver at the end of 2024. He answered:

“I think so, yes. But it’s probably unavoidable. He’s perfect for me. I mean, what signs has he made in Formula 1? Why do they say Formula 1 has a single superstar? Of course, Verstappen is the fastest, he matures. But all the statements that Lewis makes, his performances, his occupation off the track, his fight for equal treatment – both of genders and colors. That’s quite remarkable.“

Haug strongly felt that Hamilton would end his Formula 1 career with Mercedes. He added:

“If there was one combination in Formula 1 that I would have bet on lasting for eternity, it would have been Lewis Hamilton and Mercedes. I would have sworn any oath that it would remain so forever. And that afterward he would remain with the star as a brand ambassador or whatever.”

Emphasizing how fit Hamilton is, despite nearing the age of 40, Haug said:

“It takes a lot more effort at 40 than at 20. But they [Formula 1] have many drivers who are physically fitter at 30 than at 20 because they recognize the need and because they know how to feed themselves.”

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