Lewis Hamilton’s blockbuster switch to Ferrari has already rewritten Formula 1’s driver market history, but according to Gerhard Berger, the move could do much more than that—it could create the biggest marketing event in F1 history.
The seven-time world champion’s decision to leave Mercedes after over a decade of dominance has left fans and experts buzzing. While some see it as a gamble, Berger believes it was a necessary change that could reignite Hamilton’s hunger.
A Fresh Challenge to Rekindle Hamilton’s Dominance
Speaking to MotoriOnline, Berger explained why Hamilton’s move made perfect sense:
“Mercedes had become competitive only intermittently, and after so many years with the same team, he needed a change. This move could help him return to his best form.”
But the transition won’t be easy. Hamilton must contend with Charles Leclerc, a Ferrari fan-favorite and one of the fastest drivers on the grid.
“Although he will have to contend with Leclerc’s speed, seeing him win the title in red would be the biggest marketing event in Formula 1 history,” Berger emphasized.
Ferrari’s Title Window is Now, Says Berger
With Red Bull’s dominance showing signs of vulnerability, Berger believes Ferrari’s time has come.
“This season, I would bet everything on Ferrari,” he stated. “I can’t say whether Hamilton or Leclerc will win the title or whether they will triumph in the Drivers’ or Constructors’ Championship, but they will win a championship.”
That’s a bold claim, but Berger sees Ferrari’s technical progress as undeniable.
“Ferrari have closed the gap to their rivals and now have a competitive technical package, both in terms of engine and chassis. Furthermore, they can count on two top-level drivers.”
Vasseur: The Architect of Ferrari’s Comeback?
Berger also heaped praise on Ferrari’s team principal, Frédéric Vasseur, highlighting his impact since joining the Scuderia.
“I find him calm, thoughtful, and determined. He has always successfully completed the projects he has undertaken. Hiring him was the right decision, but it was clear that time would be needed to achieve results.”
With Hamilton’s signing and Ferrari’s growing strength, Berger believes Vasseur will bring the team back to the top.
F1 2025: The Countdown Begins
The road to Ferrari’s potential resurgence starts with a packed pre-season schedule:
📅 Car & Livery Launches: February (including Ferrari’s F1 75 team presentation at London’s O2 Arena on February 18).
📅 Pre-Season Testing: Bahrain, February 26–28.
📅 Season Opener: Australian Grand Prix, Melbourne, March 16—marking Albert Park’s return as the first race of the season.
With Hamilton now in Ferrari red, the stage is set for one of the most dramatic F1 seasons in recent memory.
Will Hamilton break the all-time title record in a Ferrari, or will Leclerc prove he’s the true future of Maranello?
One thing is certain—F1 2025 is shaping up to be legendary.
