Breaking News: Bernie Ecclestone Claims Lewis Hamilton Has ‘a Lot of Enemies’ at Ferrari
Former Formula 1 chief Bernie Ecclestone has cast doubts over Lewis Hamilton’s upcoming move to Ferrari, suggesting that the seven-time world champion will face significant challenges within the team. According to Ecclestone, Ferrari is deeply committed to their current star driver, Charles Leclerc, which could create internal tensions when Hamilton joins in 2025.
Leclerc’s Strong Position at Ferrari
Ferrari has invested heavily in Leclerc, who has been with the team since 2019 and is seen as their long-term leader. The Monegasque driver is fluent in Italian, has built strong relationships within the team, and enjoys widespread support from Ferrari’s management. Ecclestone believes this could put Hamilton at a disadvantage, as the team is unlikely to prioritize him over Leclerc.
“They will back Charles. He’s quick and has grown up at Ferrari. They won’t push him aside for anyone,” Ecclestone stated.
This could mean Hamilton might struggle to get the same level of support and strategic preference he has enjoyed at Mercedes. Historically, Ferrari has operated with a clear number-one driver system, and it remains uncertain whether Hamilton can establish himself in that role.
Concerns Over Hamilton’s Motivation
Ecclestone also raised concerns about Hamilton’s motivation as he approaches the twilight of his career. The British driver will turn 40 during his first season at Ferrari, and Ecclestone questioned whether he still has the same drive to fight for an eighth world title.
“He couldn’t stay at Mercedes any longer. Either he’s given up on them, or they’ve given up on him,” Ecclestone remarked, implying that Hamilton’s decision to leave Mercedes was not entirely his own.
While Hamilton remains one of the most competitive drivers on the grid, Ecclestone suggested that his priorities might be shifting away from racing. He pointed to Hamilton’s growing interests in fashion, music, and activism, hinting that these distractions could impact his focus on Formula 1.
Hamilton’s Unique Personality May Cause Friction
Another potential issue raised by Ecclestone is Hamilton’s outspoken nature and distinctive personality. Ferrari is known for its traditional and structured approach, which may clash with Hamilton’s more individualistic and media-savvy persona.
“He’s a handful. Ferrari operates in a certain way, and Lewis does things differently,” Ecclestone said.
There are concerns that Hamilton’s presence could disrupt the team’s culture, leading to potential conflicts behind the scenes.
Will Hamilton Succeed at Ferrari?
Despite these warnings, Hamilton’s raw talent and experience make him a formidable addition to any team. If he can quickly adapt to Ferrari’s environment and establish a positive working relationship with Leclerc, he may still have a chance to fight for another championship.
However, Ecclestone’s comments highlight the many challenges Hamilton may face, from internal politics to questions about his motivation and fit within Ferrari’s culture. Whether he can overcome these hurdles
and succeed remains to be seen.
