Formula 1 legend Jackie Stewart has shared his thoughts on Lewis Hamilton’s surprising decision to leave Mercedes for Ferrari at the tail end of his career. Hamilton, already an F1 icon with 105 Grand Prix victories and seven world titles, announced his switch to Scuderia Ferrari for the 2024 season, signaling his intent to keep pushing the limits as he nears his 40s.
For Stewart, the move is highly unusual given Hamilton’s age, as Formula 1 demands not only immense physical endurance but also quick recovery, which tends to favor younger drivers. The extreme cockpit heat, often reaching 40°C, can take a serious toll on the body, and while Hamilton’s raw talent remains undeniable, Stewart noted that age brings its own challenges.
“It’s more difficult for him to do it, I think, at 40 than it would have been if he was 25 or 30 years old,” Stewart remarked, reflecting on the intense physical demands drivers face as they age. However, Stewart acknowledged Hamilton’s impressive performance at the British Grand Prix earlier this year as proof that the Brit still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
While Stewart sees Hamilton’s move to Ferrari as out of the ordinary, he admires Hamilton’s passion and continued drive to compete. “It’s unusual [going to Ferrari], but at some point, he has to retire as a racing driver. He feels that time has not yet arrived, and I can understand that,” Stewart commented, highlighting Hamilton’s enduring love for the sport.
Stewart, who himself came close to joining Ferrari during his career, reflected on the unique allure of the legendary Italian team. Though he ultimately chose not to race for Ferrari, Stewart was captivated by the passionate atmosphere at Maranello, something he believes may have influenced Hamilton’s decision to don the red suit.
“The spirit of the place was amazing. The Italians are great people, they explain themselves very carefully and excitedly, and I’m sure that’s what Lewis has experienced too,” Stewart noted, suggesting that Hamilton’s move could be as much about the culture and mystique of Ferrari as it is about on-track competition.
As Hamilton prepares for his final six races with Mercedes, the F1 world watches closely. Despite the struggles of the W15 this season, each race presents another opportunity for Hamilton to cement his legacy before embarking on a new chapter with Ferrari. With his career winding down, the move to Ferrari could either rejuvenate his title hopes or mark the beginning of his final lap in Formula 1.
