Lewis Hamilton has entered his first season with Ferrari feeling a renewed sense of energy and purpose, with many of his rivals expecting the seven-time World Champion to challenge for the 2025 Formula 1 Championship—if the car lives up to expectations.
After a tough final chapter with Mercedes, where he struggled at times with form and watched the team battle performance fluctuations, Hamilton made the bold switch to Ferrari in January 2025. At the F1 75 season launch event in London, it was clear that this new chapter has revitalized the legendary driver. His reception from the crowd was the best of the night, further fueling the belief that he is ready for a new challenge.
When asked to describe his feelings, Hamilton enthusiastically responded, “The word I’m thinking of is ‘invigorated.’ I feel so full of life, and so much energy because everything’s new. I’m so focused on what’s ahead, and I’m so proud to be part of the team. It’s something new and exciting for me.”
Hamilton’s excitement about joining Ferrari echoes throughout his early weeks with the team, and it’s evident that he is eager to make the most of this fresh start. “I knew that I needed something new. I knew I needed this new challenge. I think when I got here, I realized just how much I needed it and how great it’s felt,” Hamilton explained. “I’m literally walking around with such a big smile on my face every day I come to work—it’s very… revitalizing.”
A Realistic Approach Amid New Challenges
Despite his rejuvenated spirit, Hamilton is realistic about the challenges ahead. He acknowledged the steep learning curve that comes with joining a new team, adapting to a new environment, and familiarizing himself with the unique traits of Ferrari’s car and engine. “We have such a steep learning curve,” Hamilton admitted. “It’s very much as tough as I anticipated.”
Nevertheless, the sense of excitement and optimism that Hamilton brings to the Scuderia is palpable, and after finishing his Mercedes career on a low, his re-energized outlook is something that has not gone unnoticed by his competitors.
Rivals Expect Hamilton to Be a Championship Threat
Christian Horner, the team principal of Red Bull, was quick to acknowledge Hamilton’s potential in his new environment. “If he gets off to a good start, and he gets the team behind him and he finds his confidence, he rides off that energy, then I can see him becoming a real contender in this championship,” Horner said. “We all know what Lewis is capable of and if he’s re-energised in a different environment, absolutely I think he could be a real factor this year.”
Max Verstappen, who has been Hamilton’s fierce competitor, particularly in 2021, echoed the sentiment. “We all know how good Lewis is. There’s no debate on that, right? It all depends on the car.”
Similarly, McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown, whose team narrowly defeated Ferrari for the 2024 Constructors’ Championship, also believes Hamilton is a serious threat for the 2025 title. “I’m definitely anticipating Lewis being a championship contender,” Brown said.
As Hamilton continues to settle into his new Ferrari role, all eyes will be on his progress and whether this new environment can reignite his championship-winning potential. If Ferrari can provide a competitive car, Hamilton could very well challenge for an eighth World Championship.
