Four-time F1 champion Alain Prost believes that the switch from Mercedes to Ferrari could be a good choice, although there are also some uncertain factors.
“The relationship with Charles, you know, the environment at Ferrari is also important,” Prost told ‘Sports Illustrated’. “He has driven for such a long period for a British team, Mercedes, with the way of working there and then you go to an Italian team, certainly with a different pressure, the different way of thinking, he is also under pressure from the media. I don’t think it’s that simple.”
Lewis Hamilton is currently experiencing his worst start to the season in years. Prost understands Lewis Hamilton’s motivation to possibly do something different.
“I understand his decision. When you are at a team like Mercedes, which has not won a single race in two years and is really struggling to get back to the front. At his age I would also say, ‘OK, why not try something else?’”
“I’m not sure if he would have had the chance to go to Red Bull, but certainly not with Max there. So that’s not possible. But go to Ferrari, with the drastic rule changes that will come into effect in 2026. You only have one year (2025) to integrate into the team.”
“After 2026 he will be 42 years old, maybe even 43 years old, then it will be a different story. But I can understand if you don’t want to stop racing.”
Prost is then asked whether it is a good step for Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes and Ferrari.
“The question is whether it is a good step he is taking. Will it be the right choice? You can also ask yourself the same question about Ferrari.”
“It’s good for the sport because everyone is going to watch. You can have an idea but the idea or perception you may have today will be different at the same time next year. After all, he will be a year older. Will he find his motivation while driving for Ferrari?”
“That is possible because it is currently still a short period, perhaps only one year, if Ferrari does well, then I think. that his motivation can return.”