Aya Mauri HarperGünther Steiner endorses Lewis Hamilton’s switch to Ferrari as a strategic career move, highlighting the quest for fresh challenges.
Steiner is convinced that Lewis Hamilton has made a wise decision in leaving Mercedes F1 to join Ferrari next year. The former Haas team principal believes the British driver needed a new challenge, and that Scuderia Ferrari is the ideal team for this purpose.
“He seems to have made the right decision,” Steiner told Sky Sports News. “He did so when he left McLaren for Mercedes, so perhaps he’s made the right call this time too. But I think for him, it’s mostly about seeking a new challenge.”
“He’s been with the team for 11 years, won six championships, and has good relationships. I think this is the last phase of his career and he wants a new challenge. And obviously, if your last challenge can be Ferrari, it’s a good thing to have the opportunity to do so.”
The Italian does not rule out the possibility of Hamilton clinching an eighth title with Ferrari, as he has signed a multi-year contract and will be with the team for the arrival of the new regulations.
“I think nothing is impossible. In 2026, there will be completely new engine and chassis regulations, so the cars will be redesigned at that time. And if he’s a bit lucky, in the right place, and if Ferrari produces a good car, it’s possible he could win his eighth championship.”
“It’s in Verstappen’s interest” to stay with Red Bull
Conversely, Steiner is skeptical of rumors suggesting Max Verstappen might move to Mercedes, or even to Aston Martin F1. According to him, the Dutchman has fewer reasons to leave now that the Horner affair has evidently settled down, especially given Red Bull’s dominance.
“I think things have calmed down recently over there. So, I think it wouldn’t be easy for him to terminate his contract. We don’t have information on the contract, but I think it’s also a good team to be driving for at the moment.
“In Max’s interest, he likes the car, he likes the team, so if nothing personally disturbs him, I think he really doesn’t want to move. He has won so much with this team, the team gave him the opportunity to enter F1 at the beginning, so I think if personal relationships are restored, he will stay.”
According to Steiner, Verstappen has a wealth of options should he consider changing teams: “I think everyone in Formula 1 right now is interested in Max Verstappen. The question is rather where he wants to go.”
“It could be Mercedes, which obviously has a spot open with Lewis going to Ferrari. Aston Martin is also a possibility, but I think if Max goes somewhere, I assume it will be to Mercedes.”
Hamilton’s Wise Move to Ferrari: Steiner’s Insight. Hamilton’s Wise Move to Ferrari: Steiner’s Insight
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