Formula 1Breaking News: Ferrari Chairman John Elkann has FINALLY open up on Lewis Hamilton’s…read more

 

Breaking News: Ferrari Chairman John Elkann has FINALLY open up on Lewis Hamilton’s…read more

Chris Jr.March 1, 202509 mins

Ferrari Chairman John Elkann has FINALLY open up on Lewis Hamilton’s…read more

 

 

 

Ferrari Chairman John Elkann has firmly refuted claims that the team’s recent signing of seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton was driven by marketing motives. This response comes after former Ferrari driver Jacky Ickx suggested that Hamilton’s recruitment was primarily for promotional purposes.

 

Ickx’s Critique of Hamilton’s Signing

 

Jacky Ickx, who secured six of his eight Formula 1 victories with Ferrari, expressed skepticism about the decision to bring Hamilton on board. In an interview with Mundo Deportivo during January’s Dakar Rally in Saudi Arabia, Ickx commented on Carlos Sainz’s performance and implied that Hamilton’s signing might be more about branding than racing. He stated:

 

“Carlos Sainz has done very well at Ferrari. Ferrari were tempted to sign Hamilton, probably for marketing reasons, and probably because Lewis wanted a new experience and to include Ferrari in his history. We’ll see.”

 

Elkann’s Rebuttal

 

Responding to Ickx’s remarks, John Elkann emphasized that both Hamilton and Ferrari are focused on achieving success on the track, not on marketing strategies. In an extensive interview with TIME Magazine, Elkann addressed the criticisms, saying:

 

“I think it’s really unfair to Lewis, some of the comments saying, ‘This is a marketing operation.’ Truth said, Lewis doesn’t need that. Ferrari doesn’t need that. What we need to do is win championships and do great things on the track. If that happens, what we can do outside of the track, in some ways, takes care of itself. There’s unlimited possibilities.”

 

Hamilton’s Transition to Ferrari

 

Lewis Hamilton’s move from Mercedes to Ferrari has been one of the most talked-about transitions in recent Formula 1 history. After over a decade with Mercedes, during which he clinched six of his seven world titles, Hamilton sought a new challenge. His decision to join Ferrari was influenced by a desire to fulfill a childhood dream and to pursue a record-breaking eighth drivers’ title. Hamilton expressed his enthusiasm about the move, stating:

 

“I’d been waiting for such a long time for it, so firing the car up it was like a new, uncharted journey.”

 

Ferrari’s Internal Dynamics and Performance

 

The integration of Hamilton into the Ferrari team has reportedly been smooth and positive. Former Ferrari driver Jean Alesi shared insights into the team’s reception of Hamilton, noting that the British driver’s arrival brought a “cultural shock” that has been well-received internally. Alesi highlighted the excitement within the team, stating:

 

“There is excitement within the team about Lewis Hamilton arriving for F1 2025 and the ‘first approach was very nice with everyone’ at Maranello.”

 

During pre-season testing in Bahrain, Hamilton showcased his adaptability by completing 70 trouble-free laps and securing the fifth-fastest time. He focused on understanding the new car and emphasized a team-centric approach, aiming to secure Ferrari’s first drivers’ championship since 2007.

 

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

 

Beyond the racetrack, Hamilton is known for his advocacy for diversity and inclusion within the motorsport industry. His move to Ferrari presents an opportunity to influence the team’s culture in this regard. Hamilton has expressed intentions to replicate the diversity initiatives he championed at Mercedes, aiming to expand Ferrari’s workforce diversity. Team Principal Fred Vasseur acknowledged the importance of diversity but emphasized that performance remains the primary focus:

 

“It’s not politically correct, but first is performance. I’m keen to go into the direction of diversity and so on. We are doing our best effort. We are trying to push in this direction, but I want to build up the best team.”

 

Elkann’s Vision for Ferrari’s Future

 

John Elkann has been instrumental in steering Ferrari towards a future that balances tradition with innovation. Reflecting on the team’s trajectory, Elkann expressed confidence in the direction Ferrari is heading, attributing positive changes to the contributions of Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur.

 

Elkann also highlighted the significance of Hamilton’s addition to the team, not just for his on-track prowess but also for the broader impact he can have on the brand and its global reach. He believes that with Hamilton and Charles Leclerc as drivers, Ferrari is well-posi

tioned to reclaim its dominance in the sport.