Hamilton Could Be 'Unbeatable' In Ferrari But His 'Self-Doubt' Might Return As Well

Monday, 30 December 2024 at 14:41

Lewis Hamilton will start a new chapter of his F1 career with Ferrari, and the main question is whether he will manage to succeed with the team.

The past couple of seasons in Mercedes were very challenging for the British driver. Used to fighting for the World Championships almost every season, Hamilton was certainly not in the position that he wanted to be in since 2022.

Maybe that was also one of the reasons that prompted a surprising move that saw him sign with Ferrari. The 39-year-old driver announced the move at the start of the 2024 season, but he will be driving for Ferrari since 2025.

His partnership with Mercedes was long and successful, but it was clear that Hamilton needed a new impulse. That, however, doesn't mean that he will be successful, according to former F1 World Champion Jacques Villeneuve, who talked to Express Sport.

"It just depends on how he gets to that first race in Melbourne. If he gets there, feeling loved by the team and is sitting in a car which works for him, we will see marvels."

"If it's difficult, we may see the same problems he's had in recent years, and there could be some self-doubt by the time the season ends."

"It wouldn't be nice to see as he's been carrying a lot of weight since losing the Championship title to Max. He needs to have that behind him. Hopefully, the move to Ferrari gives him a fresh start."

Ferrari finished the 2024 F1 season second in the World Constructors' Championship, showing a lot of promise, which could be a positive sign for Hamilton.

"They were the surprise package during the later stages of the season and obviously have a car which is competitive, easy enough to drive and that the drivers can play around with a little bit."

However, while Hamilton might struggle, he could also become "unbeatable," according to Villeneuve, who could still see the seven-time World Champion dominate.

"The first few races may be difficult but he just needs to stick at it and work hard. I think he just needs to be pampered a little bit. When that happens, he can be unbeatable."