Hamilton’s Revival: Andretti Predicts Ferrari Success in 2025

Andretti believes Hamilton’s fighting spirit is reignited, making Ferrari his perfect next challenge for the upcoming season.

Mario Andretti sought to reassure Ferrari—if reassurance were even needed—that they can expect Lewis Hamilton to be back at his best by 2025, after the Mercedes driver has “regained the courage and desire to fight.”

While Mercedes’ dominant years were undoubtedly the peak of Hamilton’s career, Andretti believes that period cost the driver a touch of what made him great. Yet he’s pleased to see those traits returning.

Hamilton will make only the second team switch of his F1 career next season, leaving Mercedes to join Ferrari. And Andretti has thrown his support behind Hamilton to succeed at Maranello.

“Ferrari has had a positive season this year, with some special moments, and I genuinely hope they can challenge Red Bull and McLaren in the final stretch of the championship.”

“Mercedes has also shown marked improvement, securing a few wins with Hamilton and Russell, but you know my heart is with the red team. At Monza, I saw a masterpiece from Leclerc, managing his tyres like a true master, and the car was also strong at Baku and previously at Monaco. And then Austin, a demonstration!”

“In short, Ferrari and their drivers should not be underestimated. Fred Vasseur’s work is paying off, and the team has improved. As for Lewis, who will arrive at Maranello in 2025, I’ve noticed that he’s regained the courage and hunger for competition that he had lost somewhat during Mercedes’ dominant era.”

“It will be intriguing to see him behind the wheel of the Ferrari.”

Another Briton the 1978 world champion is keeping an eye on is Lando Norris, with Andretti noting that none of the McLaren driver’s victories in 2024 have been down to chance.

“So far, Norris hasn’t won any of his races by mere luck. These haven’t been fluke successes. He and his teammate Oscar Piastri, whom I rate highly, have delivered impressive performances with McLaren, and they’re back on top.”

“Moreover, Lando has finally managed to get strong starts, a touchy topic he previously avoided discussing, and he can still improve further before the season ends. I met him this summer in America, we tinkered with my cars at a circuit near Chicago, and I know Zak Brown holds Lando in high esteem.”

“Of course, Max Verstappen remains the points favourite, but his title is at stake. He still has to secure podium finishes if Norris is ahead, and in the final races, Piastri could be there to support Lando. Or Ferrari. It’s an exciting battle, and it’s great for Formula 1.”