As Lewis Hamilton gears up for one of the most seismic career moves in Formula 1 history, the stakes have never been higher. The seven-time world champion is set to don Ferrari red in 2025, chasing the elusive eighth title that has haunted him since 2021. But while many see this as Hamilton’s golden opportunity, former Ferrari driver Gerhard Berger warns that the transition won’t be smooth sailing.
According to the Austrian racing legend, Hamilton faces two critical challenges as he steps into the Scuderia’s most prized seat—a challenge that could either reignite his career or send it spiraling into uncertainty.
The Two Obstacles Hamilton Must Overcome
For years, Hamilton dominated Formula 1 with Mercedes, racking up six of his seven world championships between 2014 and 2020. But that dominance crumbled as Mercedes’ development stagnated under the new regulations, leaving Hamilton chasing shadows instead of wins.
“He has had two problems: the Mercedes has only been a winning car on exceptional occasions, and he has now been in the same team for so long that only a change of scenery will help,” Berger explained.
And that’s where Ferrari comes in. A fresh start, a new team dynamic, and a chance to prove he still has what it takes at 40 years old. But Berger is clear: this is no easy ride.
- The Ferrari Culture Shock
Ferrari is a beast unlike any other. It operates on its own philosophy, shaped by history, prestige, and an insatiable hunger for success. Hamilton has spent over a decade in Mercedes’ structured, methodical environment, where he was the clear leader. That won’t be the case in Maranello, where Charles Leclerc has been Ferrari’s golden boy since 2019. - Beating Charles Leclerc in His Own Backyard
Leclerc isn’t just another teammate—he’s a homegrown Ferrari star, loved by the Tifosi and firmly entrenched within the team. Unlike Mercedes, where Hamilton was the undisputed No. 1, Ferrari is unlikely to hand him preferential treatment. The Leclerc vs. Hamilton battle will be one of the defining narratives of the 2025 season.
Berger acknowledges the risk but also sees why Hamilton made the move.
“I think Hamilton needs new motivation,” he said, adding that Ferrari’s environment could provide the jolt the Briton needs after years of frustration.
Can Fred Vasseur Deliver the Car Hamilton Needs?
While much of the focus is on Hamilton’s transition, Berger also highlighted the role of team principal Fred Vasseur, a man known for his aggressive leadership and ability to extract the best from his drivers.
“Ferrari was almost always fast last year, with a few slip-ups. I trust Fred Vasseur to get this volatility out of the system,” Berger remarked.
Vasseur’s Ferrari showed glimpses of brilliance in 2024, winning multiple races but lacking the consistency to mount a sustained title challenge. The question now is whether he can build a title-winning machine for Hamilton’s arrival.
Will Hamilton’s Ferrari Gamble Pay Off?
Hamilton isn’t just chasing another championship—he’s chasing history. An eighth title would put him above Michael Schumacher, making him the most decorated driver in F1 history. And doing it with Ferrari? That would be the ultimate legacy-defining moment.
But make no mistake—this is the biggest challenge of his career. The pressure, the competition, the weight of expectation at Ferrari—all of it will test Hamilton like never before.
Can he overcome it? Or will his final F1 chapter be one of frustration instead of glory?
One thing’s for certain: 2025 is set to be the most thrilling season in years.