Hamilton shocked the Formula 1 world when he announced his departure from Mercedes to join rival team Ferrari in 2025 earlier this year. The experienced 39-year-old driver will spend one final season with the Silver Arrows, aiming to surpass Michael Schumacher and clinch an eighth Drivers’ Title, this time in the iconic scarlet red.
Despite winning six of his seven championships with Mercedes, Hamilton faced a challenging period in 2022 and 2023. For the first time in his career, he failed to secure a race victory throughout the entire 2022 season, and unfortunately, the following year yielded similar disappointing results.
The start of 2024 mirrored the previous seasons, with Hamilton failing to reach the podium in the first nine Grands Prix. However, a series of upgrades from his Brackley-based team brought about a sudden change in fortune for the British driver.
Emotions ran high as Hamilton celebrated a record-breaking ninth British Grand Prix triumph, marking his first F1 win in nearly 1000 days. Following his teammate George Russell’s disqualification at the Belgian Grand Prix, Hamilton secured his second victory of the season. Alongside Championship leader Max Verstappen, he is the only driver to have won more than one race this year.
Considering these factors, many believe that Hamilton could achieve further success by remaining with Mercedes rather than making the switch to Ferrari. In contrast, the Maranello-based team has experienced a decline in form since their promising start to the current season and has not tasted victory since Charles Leclerc’s triumphant race in Monaco over two months ago.
However, former F1 driver and Sky Sports F1 pundit Herbert maintains that Hamilton made the correct decision.
In an interview with TopOffShoreSportsBooks.com, Herbert stated that at the time, it was the correct choice for Hamilton. Mercedes was struggling, and the atmosphere was gloomy. The car was not competitive, and Ferrari was performing better. Joining Ferrari presented an opportunity for Hamilton to reset and pursue his eighth world title.
Herbert acknowledged that Mercedes has surprised everyone with their swift turnaround of the car. He commended their impressive achievements and the positive feedback they have received regarding their power unit, which puts them ahead of the game for 2026.
However, Herbert believes that Hamilton’s experience and influence will take Ferrari to new heights. He speculated that it was likely discussed whether Adrian Newey would join Hamilton when he announced his departure for Ferrari. There must be something significant happening behind the scenes. Hamilton’s reputation and the respect he commands will have a tremendous impact. His presence in the factory will be powerful and motivate everyone. A driver has the ability to bring about change.
Photo Lewis Hamilton Instagram
