Formula 1 icon Bernie Ecclestone has weighed in on Lewis Hamilton's bombshell move to Ferrari, insisting the British racing superstar has "made the right choice" by leaving Mercedes.
The 93-year-old former F1 supremo, who once owned the Brabham team, believes Hamilton's switch to the Scuderia in 2025 will reignite his competitive fire after years of Mercedes dominance.
Ecclestone Praises Hamilton's Bold Gamble
Speaking exclusively to the Mirror, Ecclestone said: "Lewis needs this challenge. At Ferrari, he'll be under immense pressure to deliver – and that's exactly what champions thrive on."
The business magnate dismissed concerns about Hamilton adapting to Ferrari's notorious political environment: "He's smart enough to handle Maranello. This could be the masterstroke that defines his legacy."
Why Ferrari Makes Sense for Hamilton
- A chance to emulate hero Ayrton Senna's dream Ferrari drive
- Opportunity to become first driver to win titles with three teams
- Ferrari's 2026 engine regulations gamble could pay off
- Iconic red car adds new chapter to Hamilton's brand
Ecclestone's endorsement comes as Mercedes boss Toto Wolff admitted the team was "blindsided" by Hamilton's decision, revealed during a private dinner in February.
The Road Ahead for Mercedes
With Hamilton departing after 12 seasons, Mercedes now faces its biggest driver dilemma since Nico Rosberg's shock 2016 retirement. Potential replacements include:
- Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin)
- Alex Albon (Williams)
- Mick Schumacher (Mercedes reserve)
- Andrea Kimi Antonelli (teenage prodigy)
As the F1 world reels from this seismic shift, Ecclestone's verdict adds fascinating perspective: "Sometimes you must risk everything to gain everything. Lewis understands that better than anyone."
