Ferrari is going through a period of change, with Lewis Hamilton joining the team and promising young talents like Bearman emerging. This marks a new chapter for Ferrari, as they strive for constant improvement and a strong competitive drive.
John Elkann, the President of Ferrari, sees Hamilton’s decision to join the team as a significant endorsement of Ferrari’s potential to challenge Red Bull’s current dominance in Formula One. Hamilton, who has spent 12 seasons with Mercedes and achieved six of his seven world championships there, will be making the move to Scuderia Ferrari next year. This move comes after much speculation and denials, especially since Hamilton signed a lucrative two-year deal with Mercedes worth £100 million, despite previously expressing his desire to end his career with the German team.
For Hamilton, the transition to Ferrari represents a major shift as he aims to secure an unprecedented eighth world title, surpassing Michael Schumacher’s record. Hamilton’s exceptional track record in Formula One, including the highest number of race wins and pole positions, solidifies his status as one of the sport’s greatest drivers.
Elkann, a long-time admirer of Hamilton, played a crucial role in finalizing the deal, highlighting Hamilton’s belief in Ferrari’s potential for greatness. “He will join Ferrari, and this is a testament to his confidence in our ability to achieve great things,” Elkann stated in an interview with Sky Sports in Italy. This move comes at a pivotal time for Ferrari, as they strive to regain their former glory, having not won a drivers’ championship since 2007 or a constructors’ championship since 2008.
Despite Red Bull’s dominance in the current season, with Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez leading the charge, Ferrari has shown promise with impressive performances from Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc. Elkann remains optimistic about Ferrari’s future, especially with new regulations set to come into effect in 2026, which could bring about a shift in the competitive landscape of Formula One.
Another notable development for Ferrari is the inclusion of Oliver Bearman as a replacement for Sainz, who missed the Saudi Grand Prix due to appendicitis. Bearman made an impressive debut, earning praise from Hamilton, who warmly embraced the young British driver after the race. Elkann sees this gesture as a reflection of Hamilton’s admirable character, both on and off the track. Overall, this transition phase for Ferrari, marked by Hamilton’s arrival and the emergence of talents like Bearman, signifies a hopeful era for the team, as they strive for continuous improvement and a strong competitive spirit.