Mercedes’ trackside engineering director Andrew Shovlin has issued a stern warning to those questioning Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari, insisting the seven-time World Champion remains a formidable force in Formula 1.
The defence comes as several prominent F1 figures have cast doubt on Ferrari’s decision to replace Carlos Sainz with Hamilton, who will be 40 when he joins the Italian team.
Among the critics, former Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto, Alpine advisor Flavio Briatore and ex-F1 team boss Eddie Jordan have all expressed reservations about Ferrari’s decision, particularly after Carlos Sainz was axed to make room for Hamilton.
Former F1 driver David Coulthard notably remarked he has “never seen this Lewis in Formula 1.”
Lewis Hamilton had a difficult campaign last season with Mercedes
Reuters
Hamilton’s 2024 campaign showed signs of struggle, particularly in qualifying performance against teammate George Russell, ending with a 19-5 defeat in their head-to-head battle.
The British driver even questioned his own pace during the season, declaring “I’m definitely not fast anymore” after difficulties in Qatar.
The Mercedes engineering director also highlighted Hamilton’s strong finish to the season in Abu Dhabi, where he recovered from a Q1 exit to secure fourth place.
Shovlin acknowledged that qualifying issues in Abu Dhabi were down to the team, stating: “We let him down in qualifying. We should have started further up the grid.”
Shovlin emphasised Hamilton’s continued drive and determination heading into his Ferrari move.
READ MORE: Luke Littler receives special invite just days after outstanding World Darts Championship win
Carlos Saniz was axed by Ferrari to bring in Lewis Hamilton
Reuters
“He’s clearly still got it,” the Mercedes engineering director declared.
“He’s determined to keep going and keep winning races, keep battling for his record, and we’ll be cheering him on,” Shovlin added.
The supportive comments from Mercedes’ trackside engineering director suggest Hamilton remains capable of pursuing his record-breaking eighth World Championship with Ferrari.
Despite the doubts from prominent F1 figures, Mercedes’ technical leadership remains convinced of Hamilton’s competitive edge as he prepares for his new chapter with the Italian team.
LATEST SPORTS NEWS:
+ There are no comments
Add yours