In a surprising twist, former Renault team boss Flavio Briatore has issued a cautionary message to Lewis Hamilton ahead of his unexpected move to Ferrari.
Briatore’s advice to the seven-time world champion is clear: even a driver of Hamilton’s caliber, often likened to “Batman,” may face struggles if Ferrari fails to produce a more competitive car.
After years of swirling rumors and subsequent denials, Hamilton is set to embark on a new chapter in his racing career, having signed a multi-year contract with Scuderia Ferrari.
This momentous announcement came after a day filled with anticipation and drama. It was on a Thursday evening that Hamilton reportedly convened a meeting at Mercedes’ Brackley headquarters to inform his current team of his decision.
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For the upcoming racing season, Hamilton will continue as a Mercedes driver before making the switch to Ferrari, adding intrigue to both teams’ prospects for the 2024 season.
In the previous season, Ferrari managed to secure a Grand Prix victory, distinguishing themselves as the sole victors between the two rival teams.
They capitalized on an uncharacteristically off-color weekend from Red Bull, securing a win at the Singapore Grand Prix with Carlos Sainz behind the wheel.
In contrast, Hamilton endured a winless campaign, extending his winless streak to a daunting 45 races.
This drought represents the longest barren spell of his illustrious Formula 1 career.
While the reasons behind Hamilton’s decision to trade the silver of Mercedes for the iconic red of Ferrari remain a matter of speculation, he has described it as the realization of a “childhood dream” and expressed his “excitement” about the “new opportunity” on the horizon.
Regarding the wisdom of Hamilton’s choice, Briatore acknowledges his surprise at the move but wishes both Ferrari and the British driver the best.
He points out the critical factor in Hamilton’s potential success – the performance of the car Ferrari brings to the track.
Briatore states, “I’m very surprised by Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, he must have had his reasons.
“The only thing to say is to wish Ferrari and the British driver the best.
“Why surprised? I think he has warned the team these days, Mercedes has done a lot for him. But they will get used to this reality.
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“I think Hamilton’s decision has really thrown them for a loop. Do I agree with the choice? I don’t know.
“First of all you have to get the car right, you can also have Batman in the team, but if the car is not competitive it’s not like the driver can make a difference. It is essential that the car works.”
In essence, the success of Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari stint hinges not only on his exceptional driving skills but also on Scuderia Ferrari’s ability to provide him with a competitive car, a sentiment echoed by the seasoned motorsport figure, Flavio Briatore.