Max Verstappen has thrown his support behind Lewis Hamilton as the seven-time World Champion embarks on a new chapter with Ferrari in 2025. The Dutchman believes Hamilton will rediscover his best form, reigniting their long-dormant rivalry, and proving why he remains one of Formula 1’s greatest drivers.
With the Briton now donning Ferrari red, the F1 grid is bracing for a potential resurgence from Hamilton, provided Ferrari delivers a competitive car.
Hamilton’s Ferrari Gamble
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari marks the end of a storied era with Mercedes, a partnership that yielded six of his seven world titles. However, recent years were marked by struggles, as the 2024 campaign saw Hamilton grappling with an unpredictable W15 car, finishing behind teammate George Russell in an 18-5 qualifying head-to-head.
Despite securing two wins, Hamilton’s frustration with Mercedes’ inconsistencies was evident, leading to questions about his form and motivation. Verstappen, however, believes Hamilton’s subpar season wasn’t about skill but circumstance.
“It has been tough for him to get motivated fully this year because he knows he is leaving the team,” Verstappen explained. “When he had a competitive car and a chance to win, you could see he stepped up. But when the car wasn’t performing, it was like: ‘Whatever.’”
Age Is Just a Number
As Hamilton prepares to face his 40s on the F1 grid, some critics have speculated that age might impact his pace. Verstappen vehemently disagrees, asserting that Hamilton’s experience and achievements outweigh any physical decline.
“I don’t think he will ever lose it,” Verstappen stated. “He has achieved so much. It’s a new challenge for him at Ferrari, and he will be very motivated to show he is a seven-time World Champion.”
A Rivalry Rekindled?
Since their infamous 2021 championship battle, Hamilton and Verstappen have rarely gone wheel-to-wheel due to Mercedes’ struggles with the new generation of ground-effect cars. Now, as Hamilton takes the reins at Ferrari, Verstappen cautions that a renewed rivalry will depend heavily on the Italian team’s ability to deliver a car capable of challenging Red Bull.
“It will depend on the material he has got,” Verstappen added, acknowledging Ferrari’s historical inconsistency despite its iconic status in F1.
For Hamilton, the 2025 season represents more than just a change of scenery—it’s a chance to reignite his competitive edge, chase a record-breaking eighth Drivers’ Championship, and silence critics once and for all.
What’s Next for Hamilton at Ferrari?
Hamilton’s first season at Ferrari promises to be a defining chapter in his illustrious career. With Verstappen’s Red Bull dynasty showing no signs of slowing and Ferrari under pressure to deliver a championship-worthy car, the stage is set for a high-stakes showdown. Whether Hamilton can succeed in red will depend not just on his motivation but on Ferrari’s ability to rise to the challenge.
The question remains: can Lewis Hamilton end Ferrari’s championship drought and cement his place as the greatest of all time? One thing is certain—Formula 1 fans are in for a spectacle in 2025.