Former F1 champion Jackie Stewart gave his thoughts on Lewis Hamilton’s decision to leave Mercedes and join Scuderia Ferrari.
Lewis Hamilton boasts one of the most impressive careers in Formula 1. The Briton stands out as the only driver to win 105 Grands Prix in the sport’s history.
At 39 years old, he continues to compete against young talents like Max Verstappen. At the start of the 2024 season, Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari was announced, signaling his determination to keep racing into his 40s.
Former F1 driver Jackie Stewart remarked that it was unusual for Hamilton to join Ferrari at this stage of his career. Formula 1 is an exhausting sport. Inside the cockpit, the generated heat can reach up to 40°C, impacting drivers’ health. Younger drivers normally do better as they recover more quickly. However, older drivers like Lewis Hamilton face significant challenges.
Jackie Stewart asserted that competing at the age of 40 is more difficult for Hamilton than it would have been at 25 or 30. As drivers age, their physical abilities can decline, making it harder to keep up with younger drivers. However, the British GP clearly demonstrated the world champion has still got what it takes to win races at his age.
It’s more difficult for him to do it, I think, at 40 years than it would have been if he was 25 or 30 years. But he’s still got the skill and talent. That is obvious at present, such as at the British Grand Prix this year.
Jackie Stewart told RacingNews365
Stewart acknowledged that Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is unusual. However, the Brit’s passion for racing and energy remains strong, and Stewart fully recognized the seven-time world champion’s commitment to the sport.
It’s unusual [going to Ferrari], but at some point he has to retire as a racing driver. He feels that time has not yet arrived, and I can understand that.
Jackie Stewart added
‘The Italians are great people’ Former F1 champion Jackie Stewart reflects on the environment he witnessed at Ferrari
Jackie Stewart made his debut in 1965 and raced until 1973, participating in 100 races for teams like BRM and Matra. Although he committed to driving for Ferrari, he ultimately declined due to the team’s frequent changes. Ferrari has one of the most passionate fan bases, known as the tifosi, comprising nearly one-third of F1 fans.
During his visit to Maranello, Stewart admired the team’s atmosphere and the warm, passionate nature of the Italian people. The 85-year-old believes these factors could have influenced Lewis Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari.
I committed to drive for Ferrari, but I had to tell them that it was no longer practical because it had become almost an everyday change at Mr Ferrari’s moment. So I never did drive with Ferrari. But when I went there, I was taken aback. It was so impressive. The spirit of the place was amazing. The Italians are great people, they explain themselves very carefully and excitedly, and I’m sure that’s what Lewis has experienced too.
Jackie Stewart expressed
As Lewis Hamilton nears the final six races of his time with Mercedes, excitement grows about his legacy and future plans. Each race is a chance for him to secure more wins and strengthen his reputation as one of Formula 1’s greatest drivers. However, the Silver Arrows are struggling to extract performance from the W15, making it hard for the Briton to compete effectively.