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Lewis Hamilton's arrival at Ferrari has caused quite a chaos in the F1 scene. The driver, who has worn Mercedes colors for years and won numerous championships, decided it was time for a new step in his career. The experienced Brit seemed to be weary after the last few seasons, where he didn't achieve his desired goals. It was time to turn a new page.
By analyzing the market and the team that offers him the greatest prospects for success, Hamilton chose Ferrari as the next step in his career.
The 39-year-old will defend the colors of the Italian team from next season, which clearly intends to compete for the championship.
The team's principal, Fred Vasseur, recently reflected on Hamilton's arrival and the negotiations that preceded it. The seasoned Vasseur stressed that it wasn’t difficult to convince the Brit to become part of this team. The two had a chance to collaborate earlier, and it was clear that Hamilton had considered joining Ferrari even then. Although it was expected that Lewis would finish his career with this team, tired of the same scenarios, he realized it was the right moment to become part of Ferrari.
"Yes, it was not that difficult to convince Lewis. I remember that in 2004 we were together (in the European F3 championship) he at the time was tied to McLaren-Mercedes, but he already had in mind that sooner or later he would go to Ferrari.
We talked about it some time ago, he always had this desire in mind, but of course, he is a driver who wants to have guarantees in terms of performance, for him this aspect is always in the first place."- he said, as quoted by Motor Sport.
Fred Vasseur explained that Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari is a strong indication that the team is capable of producing a competitive car. He emphasized that a driver of Hamilton's caliber isn't looking to join just for the experience; he’s serious about winning. Vasseur stresses that Ferrari is in a good position regarding performance and acknowledges that they need to make massive improvements. He also mentioned that the team is investing resources into their next project to enhance their competitiveness.
Starting next season, Hamilton and Leclerc will partner on the F1 tracks. Many believe that the two will create a fantastic duo with the potential to achieve great things in the F1 scene. The Monegasque driver has commented several times on Hamilton's arrival, stating that there’s no jealousy and that he wants to form a strong partnership with Hamilton. His primary goal is to help the team improve and become a contender for the top positions. Leclerc also mentioned that he was aware of the negotiations between Ferrari and Lewis, and he acknowledged even then that it was a great development for the team.
Lewis Hamilton on the offer
In a media interview after signing with Ferrari, the Brit acknowledged that he received an offer over the summer that was hard to refuse. Hamilton emphasized that he didn’t consider many other options, as Ferrari's proposal was compelling. He wanted to be part of a team that could provide the best opportunities and ensure a bright future for him in F1.
“In the summer we signed, and obviously I, at that time, saw my future with Mercedes. But an opportunity came up in the new year and I decided to take it."- he said.
39-year-old Hamilton had wonderful memories with the German team, knowing what they had achieved together. However, he realized it was time for a new step in his career. Competing against Verstappen felt nearly impossible, as Hamilton couldn't even come close to matching his performance. Breaking records with such a car seemed, and still seems, unattainable. Therefore, Lewis decided to take a huge step toward the future and make some changes. He believes he has made a brilliant move and feels proud of everything he has accomplished in his career.
“I feel like… it was obviously the hardest decision that I think I’ve ever had to make. Obviously I’ve been with Mercedes for, I think it’s like 26 years they’ve supported me, and we’ve had an absolutely incredible journey together. We’ve created history within the sport, and it’s something I take a lot of pride in and I’m very proud of what we’ve achieved."- he said.
Hamilton explained that he believes he is in control of his own story and felt it was time to begin a new chapter in his life. It will be interesting to see what awaits us in the future.
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