The possible move of Lewis Hamilton to Ferrari could provide valuable insights for Scuderia on how Mercedes operates. After over a decade with Mercedes, Hamilton will depart at the end of 2024 and has signed a lucrative $430 million contract with Ferrari for 2025. However, this poses a challenge for Mercedes in terms of data sharing with their star driver. A former Formula 1 driver has suggested a solution to this problem.
During pre-season testing, Hamilton was caught taking pictures of the Mercedes W15 in the garage. There are concerns that he might divulge crucial information about the team to Ferrari next year. To address this, Capelli proposes that Mercedes bans Hamilton from bringing his phone into the garage starting from mid-2024.
Capelli emphasizes that as the season progresses, Mercedes will gradually reduce the amount of information shared with Hamilton. The team intends to ensure that the 39-year-old driver does not have access to sensitive data that could harm his future prospects. However, Capelli believes that Hamilton will still give his best during his final season in Brackley.
Since joining Mercedes in 2013, Hamilton has achieved remarkable success with the team. However, he has faced difficulties in the past two seasons, with his last victory occurring over two years ago in 2021.
Recently, Hamilton has had a tense relationship with the Mercedes engineers. He even claimed that the team acknowledged his correct assessment of a neglected path in car development. However, the 39-year-old driver will strive to have a respectable final season, concluding his long and successful partnership with Mercedes.
Considering Max Verstappen’s strong performances in pre-season, Hamilton may face challenges in the championship battle. However, the seven-time world champion is expected to compete for race wins behind the wheel of the W15 this year. Fans eagerly await to see how things will unfold for Hamilton and Mercedes in the upcoming season.