Former Formula One chief Bernie Ecclestone has predicted that Lewis Hamilton "won't last" at Ferrari following the British driver's shock move for the 2025 season.
Hamilton, who has signed with the Italian team in pursuit of a record eighth world championship, faces significant challenges according to the 94-year-old former CEO of Formula One Management.
"He won't last that long," Ecclestone told the Telegraph.
"Piero Ferrari, who has taken him there, still thinks they've done the right thing. I hope they have.
Bernie Ecclestone feels Lewis Hamilton won't be a success at Ferrari
PA"I hope they haven't just jumped in and end up wishing they hadn't."
The stark assessment from Ecclestone raises questions about Ferrari's decision to sign the seven-time world champion.
Ecclestone's criticism centres on Hamilton's motivation after years of success in the sport.
"I have my theory about this. It's not the age with drivers, it's how long they have been doing the same thing," Ecclestone explained.
"I have thought with Lewis, 'He's getting tired. He has lost motivation.'
Lewis Hamilton will make his debut for Ferrari next month
Reuters"If he had never won a world championship, it might be different, because then there would be an incentive to win one. But he has won seven."
Ecclestone has been critical of Hamilton in the past and dismissed the British driver's capabilities of continuing to compete at the highest level in the latter stages of his career.
The former F1 boss also highlighted potential tensions between Hamilton and current Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc.
"The team is happy with Charles Leclerc, his team-mate. Leclerc speaks their language, so they'll be looking after him," Ecclestone said.
He warned that Hamilton's arrival could create divisions within the team.
"Even if Lewis does well, there'll still be a lot of enemies, because he has suddenly arrived," Ecclestone added.
LATEST SPORT NEWS:
Charles Leclerc will be Lewis Hamilton's new team-matePAShould Hamilton succeed at Ferrari, he would make history as the first driver in 60 years to win a championship over the age of 40.
Only three drivers have ever claimed the Drivers' Championship after turning 40, with Jack Brabham being the last to achieve this feat.
The challenge ahead for Hamilton is significant as he aims to secure what would be a record-breaking eighth world championship with his new team.
You may like
