Lewis Hamilton is preparing to embark on a new chapter in his illustrious Formula One career, joining Ferrari in 2025 after a brilliant run with Mercedes. In this highly anticipated move, Hamilton reflects on his childhood hero, Michael Schumacher, as he prepares to take the famous red cockpit. For Hamilton, the move to Ferrari is more than just a professional milestone; it is a tribute to Schumacher, whom he sees as a significant influence in his career.
Hamilton’s Ferrari debut follows a great run with Mercedes, where he accomplished extraordinary results, including tying Schumacher’s record of seven world titles – six of which were won while driving for Mercedes.
“It’s been a rollercoaster of emotions since I signed the contract, and telling my boss was terrifying,” Hamilton told The Times. His choice to quit Mercedes, a team where he made his career, was far from easy. The appeal of Ferrari, a squad steeped in motorsport tradition and fuelled by boyhood memories of Schumacher’s supremacy, proved overwhelming.
“But it’s so exciting because I remember watching Michael when I was a kid,” Hamilton added with nostalgia.
To grasp the significance of Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, consider Schumacher’s time with the club, when he won a record five straight championships from 2000 to 2004. This phase is regarded as one of the most dominant in F1 history, leaving a lasting impression on the sport and Hamilton, who was later able to replicate Schumacher’s success. Hamilton’s move to Ferrari follows a story of going full circle, from being a teenage admirer of Schumacher’s brilliance to taking on a role that mimics his hero’s path.
Despite approaching 40, Hamilton feels confident in his physical and mental strength.
“Honestly, right now I feel I’m healthier than I’ve ever been.” His dedication to maintaining high physical and mental standards has kept him competitive at the highest levels. He continued:
“My reaction times are still faster than the younger guys. “I believe I am a better driver than I was at 22.” At Ferrari, he aspires to win not just races but also an eighth title, surpassing Schumacher.
Looking back on his career, Hamilton has evolved from a driver known for his youthful exuberance to a seasoned athlete whose maturity is evident in his racing style.
“I was just young, energetic, and ruthless, with no finesse or balance.” “I didn’t know how to be a team player or a leader.” At Ferrari, he hopes to continue this evolution while drawing on lessons learnt from his experience at Mercedes: “Being a good racing driver, it’s not just about being fast, it’s about being the most rounded.”
He will race with Charles Leclerc, and the two are expected to establish a strong relationship that might propel Ferrari back to glory, which they haven’t had since their last championship win in 2007. This combination, together with Ferrari’s technological restructure, aims to revitalise the team, particularly as regulations change dramatically in 2026.
Meanwhile, Hamilton leaves Mercedes in a position to continue their legacy. Team Principal Toto Wolff has announced Kimi Antonelli as Hamilton’s successor.
About The Author
