Two-time Formula 1 world champion Emerson Fittipaldi has defended Lewis Hamilton's move to Ferrari, saying he was "upset" by criticism of the Briton's decision and describing the switch as a dream opportunity.
Hamilton, 41, holds the joint record for World Championship wins, tied with Michael Schumacher on seven, but left Mercedes to chase a record eighth title with Ferrari.
Fittipaldi's Support for Hamilton
Speaking to Betway, Fittipaldi, the 1972 and 1974 world champion, said: "Last year, I was quite upset when people were criticising Lewis Hamilton's move.
"Every driver—myself, Ayrton Senna, Nelson Piquet—dreams of driving for Ferrari one day. Lewis has achieved everything there is to achieve with seven World Championships. When he had the offer to go to Ferrari, it was great for him to accept a new challenge.
Ferrari's Championship Prospects
Fittipaldi believes Ferrari are now competitive and backed them to challenge for the title next year.
He said: "Next year Ferrari have a good chance of winning the championship, no doubt. Even Leclerc showed it; they are able to keep the tyres surviving longer than before.
"They still need to improve the car on all tyre compounds, but they are working on that for sure."
