Ex-Ferrari engineer Rob Smedley has high hopes for the newly-formed Ferrari dream team of Charles Leclerc and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. Smedley believes that Hamilton’s presence in Maranello will elevate Leclerc to “the real deal” and transform the Monegasque driver into a relentless “winning machine.”
Hamilton, who joined Ferrari on a multi-year deal after a 12-season stint at Mercedes, brings with him unparalleled experience, resilience, and a legacy unmatched in modern Formula 1. While his 2024 campaign with Mercedes saw ups and downs, including a single win at Silverstone, the Briton is poised for a fresh challenge alongside Leclerc.
Hamilton-Leclerc: Ferrari’s Version of Schumacher-Massa
Smedley compared the Leclerc-Hamilton pairing to Ferrari’s 2006 duo of Michael Schumacher and Felipe Massa. He explained how Massa, initially the apprentice, eventually challenged Schumacher on merit, setting the stage for his own success:
“It’s a completely different situation, but it’s like Felipe Massa in 2006 against Michael Schumacher. By the end of the year, he was actually beating Michael in qualifying and winning some races.”
Smedley sees a similar trajectory for Leclerc, predicting that the 26-year-old can thrive under Hamilton’s mentorship and gain the composure and consistency needed to become a world champion.
“Charles can learn from Lewis. By the time Lewis is ready to retire, Ferrari will have a fully formed world champion in Charles, who’s ready to dominate.”
Age vs. Experience: Will Hamilton Deliver for Ferrari?
While Smedley is optimistic about the partnership, questions remain about Hamilton’s ability to maintain his elite pace as he approaches his 40th birthday. Hamilton himself acknowledged struggles in 2024, remarking after a tough outing in Qatar, “I’m not fast anymore.”
However, Smedley insists Hamilton is far from finished:
“Lewis is incredibly fit, motivated, and psychologically strong. He’s not slowing down anytime soon. Ferrari benefits either way—whether it’s Lewis winning more races or Charles growing into a champion.”
Former Ferrari driver Felipe Massa offered a more cautious perspective. While praising Hamilton’s talent, Massa expressed concerns about the Briton’s age and its impact on his performance:
“Age takes its toll. It’s harder to recover physically after tough races. That’s something Ferrari will need to consider.”
Leclerc’s Opportunity to Shine
Smedley believes the dynamic between Leclerc and Hamilton will differ from the Monegasque’s previous partnership with Carlos Sainz. With Hamilton’s legendary status, Leclerc can approach the competition with less immediate pressure:
“Charles will feel a different dynamic compared to racing against Carlos. There’s no need to prove himself as an equal. Instead, he can grow and evolve alongside a seven-time world champion.”
Leclerc, who has been with Ferrari since 2018, remains one of the most talented drivers on the grid but has faced criticism for inconsistency and mistakes during high-pressure moments. With Hamilton as a teammate, Ferrari hopes to unlock Leclerc’s full potential.
Can Hamilton and Leclerc Deliver Ferrari’s Championship Dream?
The 2025 season marks a new chapter for Ferrari as it aims to end a championship drought that dates back to 2008 for drivers and 2007 for constructors. With Hamilton’s wealth of experience and Leclerc’s raw talent, the Scuderia may finally have the recipe for success. However, the road ahead will not be without challenges.
Will Ferrari’s gamble on Hamilton’s age and experience pay off? And can Leclerc capitalize on this rare opportunity to become the dominant force Ferrari has long sought? Fans will eagerly await the answers as the season unfolds.
