Patrick described the move as a “masterstroke,” acknowledging Hamilton’s prowess, but suggested that Ferrari’s ultimate ambition to secure a World Championship would have been better served by acquiring Max Verstappen.
She stated, “I think Ferrari’s decision to take him (Lewis) was a masterstroke, but of course, they would have preferred Max. Ferrari can only become World Champions with Max; they won’t succeed with Hamilton. He is the second choice, but better second than third.”
Ferrari’s Strategic Move
Ferrari’s recruitment of Lewis Hamilton marks a significant shift in the F1 landscape. After a long-standing tenure with Mercedes, Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari is seen as a bold move by the Italian team to reclaim their dominance in the sport. While Hamilton brings a wealth of experience and a championship-winning pedigree, Patrick’s comments suggest that some believe Verstappen’s current form and aggressive driving style might have been a more fitting choice for Ferrari’s championship aspirations.
Hamilton’s Perspective
Despite external opinions, Lewis Hamilton remains focused on his new journey with Ferrari. In a recent interview, he expressed that any external pressure is “nonexistent” and emphasized his commitment to achieving personal goals and contributing to Ferrari’s success. Hamilton acknowledged the challenges of adapting to a new team but conveyed his excitement about this phase of his career.
Fan Reactions
The F1 community has been abuzz with reactions to both Ferrari’s signing of Hamilton and Patrick’s remarks. Some fans support Patrick’s viewpoint, believing that Verstappen’s recent performances position him as the ideal candidate for leading Ferrari to a championship. Others argue that Hamilton’s experience and proven track record make him a valuable asset to Ferrari’s campaign.
Looking Ahead
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Ferrari and Hamilton to see how this partnership unfolds. Whether Patrick’s assessment holds true or Hamilton defies expectations to lead Ferrari to championship glory remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the upcoming season promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.
