Ecclestone and Briatore claim that Hamilton's signing was a blunder.

      "Ferrari already had two very capable drivers."

      By GMM

      14 March 2025 - 11:24

      Bernie Ecclestone and Flavio Briatore believe that Ferrari has erred in signing Lewis Hamilton. The former Formula 1 CEO, Ecclestone, claims that the seven-time world champion's best opportunity for continued success at the age of 40 and beyond would have been to remain with Mercedes. "Hamilton has already achieved a tremendous amount at Mercedes and is familiar with the team and its operations," the 94-year-old Brit remarked to Germany's RTL. "At Ferrari, though, there is uncertainty about whether he will get the necessary support and a competitive car," Ecclestone noted.

      Ferrari is entering the 2025 season with clear aspirations for the world championship, yet Ecclestone expresses his skepticism. "It's not the technology or the budget," he stated. "It's the lack of appropriate leadership, which is evident from outside." He pointed out that during Ferrari's successful times, Jean Todt was in charge with a superb team that collaborated effectively.

      Briatore, a longtime associate of Ecclestone and now a prominent advisor at Alpine, shares this viewpoint. "No, I wouldn’t have signed him," the Italian commented to Corriere della Sera. "Ferrari already had two very strong drivers - (Charles) Leclerc and (Carlos) Sainz. Setting aside the marketing advantage Lewis brings, I consider Charles one of the fastest and the best in qualifying. Carlos is tough as well. They made a fantastic duo, but Ferrari chose to go in a different direction."

      Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher is among those who believe Leclerc will outperform Hamilton in 2025. "(George) Russell ultimately proved to be the stronger and more consistent driver at Mercedes," he told Sky Deutschland. "Hamilton has been in the sport long enough that he needs to strive to outperform Leclerc from the very beginning, but I think that's nearly impossible," Schumacher added. "Leclerc has improved significantly. He has gained considerable confidence and is familiar with the car that was designed for him. Therefore, it will be challenging for Hamilton right from the start."