Martin Brundle makes feelings clear on Lewis Hamilton's chances of winning eighth world title at Ferrari
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Sky Sports F1 pundit Martin Brundle believes Lewis Hamilton can still clinch a record-breaking eighth Formula 1 world title at Ferrari, despite being past his peak years.
The assessment comes as Hamilton completed his first test drive for Ferrari this week, marking a historic shift for the seven-time world champion.
"I have no doubt that if Ferrari have a race-winning car or a championship-winning car, then Lewis can win races and even the championship," Brundle told Sky Sports News.
The veteran commentator suggests Hamilton retains "96-97 per cent" of his abilities at age 40.
Hamilton's Ferrari debut took place at the iconic Fiorano test track in Italy on Wednesday, where he donned the famous scarlet colours for the first time.
"Two of the biggest names in the 75-year history of Formula 1, some might say the biggest names. Lewis Hamilton dressed all in the scarlet of the prancing horse, an absolutely extraordinary story," said Brundle.
The move represents only Hamilton's third team in Formula 1, with Brundle noting that Hamilton "will want to show that, despite just turning 40, he's not over the hill."
The historic moment drew significant attention from Ferrari's passionate Tifosi fanbase.
Hamilton completed 30 laps, covering 55 miles, during his first outing in the 2023 Ferrari F1 car.
The test session drew 1,500 spectators to the Fiorano circuit, with fans erupting in cheers and chants as Hamilton arrived at the track.
The British driver was accompanied by his family for the momentous occasion.
The session also provided Hamilton with valuable time to familiarise himself with new race engineer Riccardo Adami and Ferrari's systems.
Martin Brundle is tipping Lewis Hamilton to succeed at Ferrari
GETTYIt marked the first time Hamilton has driven a Formula 1 car not powered by Mercedes engines.
Brundle acknowledged that Hamilton's peak performance is behind him, pointing to occasional qualifying mistakes and racing incidents.
"Do I think the best of Lewis Hamilton is ahead or behind him? I think it's behind him," Brundle explained to Sky Sports News.
However, the Sky Sports F1 pundit highlighted Hamilton's victories at Silverstone and Spa in 2024 as evidence of his enduring speed.
"He was extraordinary all through practice in Las Vegas and then fluffed it in qualifying, something he didn't used to do much, and then was extraordinary in the race," Brundle noted.
Hamilton's British Grand Prix win ended a 56-race winless streak, before adding his 105th career victory in Belgium.
Brundle highlighted significant challenges ahead for Hamilton at Ferrari, particularly regarding his new teammate.
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Lewis Hamilton endured a difficult last few years with MercedesLewis Hamilton endured a difficult last few years with Mercedes"There are some big challenges, his team-mate Charles Leclerc has been there seven years effectively and knows exactly where the buttons are, and who does what," said Brundle.
He emphasised Leclerc's speed as a key factor Hamilton will need to contend with.
Yet Brundle remains confident in Hamilton's ability to adapt, noting: "He will not be overwhelmed driving a Ferrari like so many drivers have."
The Sky Sports pundit also pointed out that Hamilton already enjoys strong support from Ferrari's fanbase, saying "the Italian fans, known as the Tifosi, adore him."
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