Lewis Hamilton is already looking forward to switching to Ferrari in the upcoming season.
As he gets ready to join Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari, Charles Leclerc claims he has been texting Hamilton about their relationship for 2025. As he prepares to say goodbye to the Prancing Horse and be replaced by Hamilton, Carlos Sainz’s 2017 season is sure to be emotional.
Since joining the Ferrari team in 2021, Sainz has competed fiercely against Leclerc, winning two Grands Prix. The seven-time world champion Hamilton was a target for team principal Frederic Vasseur, though, despite his lacklustre performances.
With his more experienced teammate arriving at Ferrari next year, Leclerc—whose bumper deal expires at the end of 2029—will have competition to maintain his position as the team’s leader. Nevertheless, Leclerc acknowledged that they had been in communication before to the announcement, and the two are getting along well for the time being.
“This kind of deal is not finalised overnight, and I was aware of those discussions before I signed my deal so it did not come as a surprise,” said the Monegasque.
“Lewis is undoubtedly the most successful driver in history, and he offers a wealth of experience to the squad. I spoke with Lewis, particularly after everything was formally declared. We exchanged text messages.
He has achieved amazing achievement and is a great champion. Having a new teammate is always exciting since it teaches you new driving and working techniques. This is especially true when that new teammate is a seven-time world champion.”
Hamilton is thought to have inked a multi-year contract with the Prancing Horse, even though he will be forty years old before he takes a stern look at a Ferrari wheel. Sainz was among the first to learn about the switch, of course, and the Spaniard acknowledges that it took him by surprise.
“I was a bit surprised, like everyone in the Formula One world,” remarked the driver. As you can see, I was informed of the news a little sooner than everybody else. I used those weeks to think things through, get ready for the car’s launch, and get ready for the season’s opening race.
It allowed me some time to process it and come to my own conclusions. I have no idea who will be on my next squad. However, there are lots of options available.”
The prospect of the two switching seats is increased by Sainz’s availability in 2025 and Hamilton’s exit from Mercedes, with Silver Arrows manager Toto Wolff already searching for George Russell’s next accomplice.
