In a decision that has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 world, Ferrari’s choice to sign Lewis Hamilton and part ways with Carlos Sainz has sparked a heated debate. Former F1 boss Flavio Briatore didn’t mince words as he criticized Ferrari’s move, questioning the logic behind dismantling a promising driver duo for a 39-year-old seven-time champion.
Briatore’s Scathing Remarks on Ferrari’s Strategy
Lewis Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari marks the end of his 12-year partnership with Mercedes and only his third constructor in an illustrious career. Yet, Briatore remains unconvinced about the wisdom of the decision. Speaking candidly, he highlighted the risk of breaking up the Sainz-Leclerc pairing, which had shown significant promise.
“It will be strange to see Lewis in a Ferrari,” Briatore remarked. “Of course, I respect such decisions, but I wonder if it makes sense. I don’t understand why this great duo has been torn apart.”
Briatore was particularly vocal about Sainz’s impressive 2024 season, during which the Spaniard secured two race wins and consistently outperformed expectations. With Ferrari showing signs of improvement, Briatore questioned the decision to let go of Sainz, who finished ahead of Hamilton in the drivers’ standings.
“If I was the person in charge at Ferrari, I would not have contracted Hamilton,” he said bluntly.
Hamilton’s Move: A Divisive Gamble
Criticism of Hamilton’s move isn’t universal. Former F1 champion Nigel Mansell has thrown his full support behind the Briton’s decision to join Ferrari. Mansell sees the switch as a bold and magical move that could reignite Hamilton’s championship aspirations.
“What Lewis has done by deciding to join Ferrari is the most magical thing he could have done,” Mansell said. “The team is ultra-competitive. They could go for the championship next year.”
Mansell added that Hamilton’s class and determination make him a prime contender for an eighth world title.
“I don’t care what anybody says about Lewis. He is a class act. I have always been a fan of his.”
Ferrari’s High Stakes for 2025
Ferrari has wasted no time preparing Hamilton for the 2025 season. The team has scheduled extensive testing for the Briton, set to begin in late January, alongside the unveiling of the much-anticipated SF-25 chassis. The Scuderia is banking on Hamilton’s experience and resilience to end their championship drought, which has persisted since 2008.
The move also brings intense pressure, as Ferrari faces backlash for dismantling a driver pairing that many believed was finally clicking. With Charles Leclerc now paired with a veteran Hamilton, Ferrari has put all its chips on a duo that carries both experience and the weight of expectation.
What’s Next for Ferrari and Hamilton?
The 2025 season promises high drama as Hamilton seeks to claim his record-breaking eighth world title. Will Ferrari’s gamble pay off, or will Briatore’s criticisms ring true as the Scuderia faces the fallout of a high-risk, high-reward decision?