Hamilton will replace Sainz and join Charles Leclerc in the prestigious Italian team next season in a surprising move announced earlier this month.
“I believe that’s how the sport works and I have great admiration for Lewis and the achievements he has had, as well as his decision to join Ferrari,” said Sainz during a press conference at the Bahrain Grand Prix on Wednesday, sitting next to Hamilton.
“If I were in his position, I would have made the same choice,” added the 29-year-old, who took over the position of four-time Formula 1 champion Sebastian Vettel at the Maranello-based team in 2021.
Hamilton, who hasn’t won a race since 2021, recently signed a two-year extension with Mercedes. However, he activated a release clause to sign a multi-year contract with Ferrari. The 39-year-old driver expressed his desire to embark on a new chapter in his record-breaking Formula 1 journey.
Ferrari holds the title of the most successful team in the sport but hasn’t won a Formula 1 Drivers’ Championship since Kimi Raikkonen’s victory in 2007.
“There is great mutual respect among all of us, and I hold Carlos in high regard,” said Hamilton, winner of 103 grand prix races. “I don’t feel any animosity or negative feelings. It’s just part of the racing world, and I hope our relationship won’t be affected by it. I don’t believe it will be.”
Sainz has not yet secured a seat in Formula 1 for 2025, but he remains optimistic about his chances. He is open to any opportunity that may arise. (Reported by Abhishek Takle)
