Speculation around Lewis Hamilton’s anticipated move to Ferrari has ramped up, as the seven-time world champion nears the end of his long and successful tenure with Mercedes.

Despite widespread expectations that Hamilton would begin testing with Ferrari immediately after the 2024 season finale in Abu Dhabi, Mercedes is reportedly blocking the early transition, igniting tensions between the British driver and the team.

Rumors had swirled that Hamilton might debut with Ferrari during the post-season tire testing day in Abu Dhabi, which typically takes place two days after the final race of the season.

Many teams, including Red Bull and McLaren, have historically allowed drivers moving to new teams to participate in these tests. Notably, Red Bull permitted Pierre Gasly to begin working with Alpine shortly after his contractual obligations ended with AlphaTauri. However, it seems Mercedes will not extend the same courtesy to Hamilton.

According to reports from the BBC, the Brackley-based Mercedes team remains firm in its stance, choosing to retain Hamilton for various promotional duties and farewell events through the end of the year. While Hamilton has made his desire clear to start his Ferrari journey as soon as possible, Mercedes’ decision to keep him under contract until early 2025 has created a rift that could lead to tension in the final weeks of their partnership.

This move has drawn comparisons to other recent F1 transitions, and many are questioning the logic behind Mercedes’ decision. Hamilton has been the driving force behind Mercedes’ dominance during the turbo-hybrid era, contributing to six Drivers’ Championships and eight consecutive Constructors’ Championships. With 84 of Mercedes’ 112 Formula 1 victories to his name, Hamilton’s contributions to the team’s legacy are undeniable.

Some insiders argue that Mercedes’ refusal to release Hamilton early could strain their relationship. Toto Wolff, team principal of Mercedes, has expressed his trust in Hamilton, but the team still wants to prevent any potential information leaks. This level of caution, while understandable from a competitive standpoint, has left some fans and analysts puzzled. Hamilton has been an iconic figure for Mercedes, and preventing him from smoothly transitioning to Ferrari might tarnish the otherwise amicable end to his remarkable career with the team.

As the 2024 season draws to a close, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will likely mark Hamilton’s final race in Mercedes colors. The emotional weight of the race, coupled with the knowledge that Hamilton’s next chapter with Ferrari is just around the corner, has only heightened the anticipation. Ferrari, eager to start working with Hamilton on their ambitious goal of securing an eighth Drivers’ Championship, will be watching closely.

While Mercedes has not officially commented on the reasoning behind their decision, it is clear that the transition will not be without complications. Hamilton faces a significant challenge adapting to Ferrari after 11 years with Mercedes, particularly as he adjusts to a new car and team dynamic. Early testing would have provided valuable insight into the Ferrari car ahead of the 2025 season.

Despite the logistical hurdles, Hamilton remains committed to Ferrari’s long-term project. However, the strained final months of his Mercedes contract may prove to be an obstacle in what should be an iconic and celebratory career shift.

Fans and experts alike are left to wonder if Mercedes’ decision will have lingering effects on Hamilton’s departure, or if the team’s approach will ultimately be seen as an understandable move in protecting their future. Only time will tell how this pivotal moment in Hamilton’s career will be remembered.