Lewis Hamilton has strongly rejected criticism of his move from Mercedes to Ferrari, dismissing the comments from what he described as “older, white men” as irrelevant. The seven-time Formula 1 world champion is preparing for his 19th season in the sport, having switched to Ferrari after spending 12 years at Mercedes. Despite winning six of his seven titles with Mercedes, Hamilton expressed his excitement about joining Ferrari and stated that he feels rejuvenated by the change.
In an interview with Time magazine, Hamilton addressed the criticism he has faced, particularly from former F1 team principal Eddie Jordan and the sport’s former CEO Bernie Ecclestone. Both men had questioned the wisdom of Ferrari’s decision to sign Hamilton and let go of Carlos Sainz. Ecclestone also doubted Hamilton’s long-term commitment to Ferrari, suggesting that the British driver might not stay with the team for more than two years.
Hamilton, however, took the opportunity to firmly reject these criticisms. “I’ve always welcomed the negativity,” he said, adding that he never responds to the opinions of those he describes as older, white men. He made it clear that his focus has always been on proving himself through his performance, letting his results do the talking. “How you show up, how you present yourself, how you perform slowly dispels that,” he said, emphasizing that he is not concerned with the opinions of people who may not understand his journey.
The 40-year-old also took the chance to assert his individuality in the sport, noting that his journey as the first and only Black driver in Formula 1 makes his career unique. “You can’t compare me to another 40-year-old, past or present, Formula One driver in history,” he explained. “Because they are nothing like me. I’m hungry, driven, don’t have a wife and kids. I’m focused on one thing, and that’s winning. That’s my No 1 priority.” Hamilton made it clear that despite his age, he feels as motivated as ever and is determined to secure his record-breaking eighth world championship.
This transition to Ferrari has brought a renewed sense of purpose for Hamilton, who has spent over a decade at Mercedes, where he achieved unparalleled success. However, with Ferrari, he sees a new challenge and the opportunity to bring the team its first driver’s title since 2007. Hamilton’s determination to succeed with Ferrari is unwavering, and he remains fully committed to his goal of becoming the sport’s most successful driver.
Despite the doubts expressed by some critics, Hamilton’s desire to win is stronger than ever. “Retirement is nowhere on my radar,” he said. “I could be here until I’m 50, who knows.” He’s confident that he has the ability, the support, and the right team around him to continue competing at the highest level. His ambition and focus on securing that elusive eighth championship remain as strong as ever, and he is determined to prove that he is far from finished in the sport.
With his contract at Ferrari spanning several years, Hamilton is set to team up with Charles Leclerc, a rising star at the Scuderia. The duo will work together to challenge for titles, with Hamilton believing that they have what it takes to bring Ferrari back to the top of Formula 1. Despite his age, Hamilton sees many years of racing ahead of him and is fully focused on achieving more success with his new team.
