Lewis Hamilton’s arrival at Ferrari has been a major point of focus for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Many people are intrigued by the seven-time F1 world champion’s first step in Maranello. However, some, like Bernie Ecclestone, do not enjoy the hype surrounding this alliance.
The former F1 chief executive, who was ousted from his position shortly after Liberty Media took over leadership, holds a skeptical view of this transfer. Ecclestone expressed doubt that Hamilton would receive the same level of attention at Ferrari. He pointed out that the team is happy with Charles Leclerc, his teammate, who speaks their language (being fluent in Italian as a Monégasque), and they will stand by him. Even if Hamilton performs well, Ecclestone believes he will still have plenty of enemies because of his sudden arrival.
Regarding the age difference between the two drivers, with Hamilton at 40 and Leclerc at 27, Ecclestone shared his theory. He emphasized that the most crucial factor is not the age of the drivers, but the time they have spent doing the same thing. Ecclestone speculated that Hamilton might be tired and lacking motivation, especially since he has already won seven world championships.
Hamilton has signed a contract with Ferrari for at least two seasons, with the possibility of a third year as an option. As a former collector of classic cars, Ecclestone believes that the situation will deteriorate. He hopes that Piero Ferrari, who brought Hamilton in, has made the right decision and will not regret it in the end.
Ecclestone did not only comment on the sporting aspects but also criticized Hamilton’s fashion choices and his passions outside the racing world. He questioned how a man with multiple world titles and a significant bank account could dress a certain way, expressing his disapproval of Hamilton. Despite acknowledging Hamilton’s talent as a driver, Ecclestone believes that Hamilton’s actions and involvement in other ventures beyond racing are unnecessary.
In recent years, Ecclestone and Hamilton have clashed, particularly on issues of diversity and racism. Ecclestone, known for controversial and inappropriate comments, once stated that “in many cases, black people are more racist than white people.” Hamilton responded by highlighting the lack of action to combat racial abuse he faced throughout his career, emphasizing the need for increased diversity in the sport.
