Lewis Hamilton has astounded the Formula 1 world with his announcement of departure from Mercedes to join Ferrari ahead of the 2025 season.
The 39-year-old aims for an eighth drivers’ championship title, surpassing Michael Schumacher on the all-time leaderboard.
Fernando Alonso, Hamilton’s long-time rival, shared his perspective on the Brit’s move to the Italian motorsport giants.
Alonso and Hamilton had a strained relationship during their McLaren stint, with Alonso expressing skepticism towards Hamilton’s claim that joining Ferrari was a “childhood dream.”
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“[During the past few years] Ferrari had a very fast car and were fighting for big things,” he told BBC Sport.
“Maybe Lewis can bring that extra to fight for the championship.
“The car is there. It was not his childhood dream 12 months ago, no? Or two months ago I guess, because it was a different dream then.”
Hamilton’s move has sparked widespread discussion in F1 circles. Former Mercedes teammate Valtteri Bottas conveyed his “surprise” at the decision.
“I was surprised. I never thought it would happen; I thought he would stay at Mercedes, but that’s Formula One,” Bottas said at Sauber’s 2024 car launch.
“Things happen, and I think it’s good for him because he’s obviously made the decision, and it’s a fresh, new start.”
Discussing his own future, Alonso indicated he was in a favourable position and hinted at the possibility of exploring options beyond Aston Martin.
“I am aware of my situation, which is unique,” he said.
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“But if we cannot reach an agreement and I want to commit to racing in F1, I know I have a privileged position, I am probably attractive to other teams, the performance they saw last year, the commitment.”
Entering his 21st F1 season, Alonso, at 42, remains confident in his ability to compete as long as his motivation persists.
“Now I can think maybe I can race for a few more years. So I would say if you are motivated and want to commit, you can drive until 48 or 49 or maybe even 50,” he remarked.