P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Hamilton Ferrari ambition revealed with retirement talk dismissed
Ferrari chairman John Elkann emphasized that Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari next year is not merely for retirement purposes. The surprising decision to sign the seven-time champion came after Hamilton’s long tenure with Mercedes, during which he won six of his seven drivers’ crowns. Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari was triggered by Mercedes’ struggles under the new aerodynamic regulations introduced in 2022. Despite initial doubts, Mercedes improved later in the season, with Hamilton winning two of the last three races before the summer break. Elkann clarified that Hamilton’s main goal at Ferrari will be to pursue his eighth title, emphasizing the team’s shared ambition to win. The chairman highlighted the importance of having motivated individuals like Hamilton, who are driven by the desire for victory rather than retirement. Elkann also noted that, at 40 years old, Hamilton’s rich experience and consistency will be valuable assets for Ferrari as they aim to compete against other top teams in Formula 1. Moreover, Elkann pointed out that Hamilton represents a trend of athletes in various sports proving that age does not limit success, highlighting his dedication and ability to overcome physical limitations. He mentioned other top athletes like Djokovic, Federer, Messi, and Ronaldo, who continue to excel in their respective sports as they age.
