Mika Hakkinen: A tough road for Hamilton at Ferrari

Two-time F1 champion Mika Hakkinen weighs in on Lewis Hamilton's move to Ferrari for 2025, highlighting potential challenges and opportunities for the Briton's pursuit of an eighth title in an interview with F1 Planet.

As Lewis Hamilton prepares for a seismic shift from Mercedes to Ferrari in 2025, two-time F1 world champion Mika Hakkinen believes the seven-time titleholder faces a formidable challenge in his quest for an unprecedented eighth drivers' championship.

"It's quite a big change for him,"

Hakkinen referring to Hamilton's move from the familiar confines of the British-based Mercedes team to the iconic Italian marque.

"To now change to an Italian team, where he doesn't have experience, it can be quite a big change for him – to understand the philosophy, and how they work."

Hakkinen acknowledges that while the change brings excitement and renewed motivation for Hamilton, adapting to Ferrari's distinct culture and way of operating could pose a significant hurdle.

Compounding the challenge is the presence of Charles Leclerc, Ferrari's young and talented lead driver.

"You have Charles Leclerc over there, and he has been with the team for a long time," Hakkinen noted.

"He's a very talented young driver, and the car is tailor-made for him. So it's not going to be so straightforward, in my opinion."

Leclerc's familiarity with the team and his status as a championship contender make him a formidable opponent for Hamilton within the same garage.

While acknowledging the difficulties Hamilton may face, Hakkinen also recognizes the potential rewards of the move.

"If they're able to build the car and fix the problems that they have, then there is a possibility," he said, referring to Hamilton's chances of claiming an eighth title.

Ultimately, Hakkinen emphasizes that a championship-winning car is the crucial factor, regardless of the team or driver pairing.

Hamilton's decision to join Ferrari in the twilight of his illustrious career is a calculated risk driven by his insatiable hunger for success.

Hakkinen explained:

"He wants to now go to another team and try to find the same type of journey, and that, one day, they can become winners,"

While the challenges are significant, the allure of adding to his legacy with the sport's most iconic team may have proven too tempting for Hamilton to resist.