Lewis Hamilton’s last few months with Mercedes were far more turbulent than he would’ve hoped, but he’s probably glad that they’re over.
Soon, he will officially be a Scuderia Ferrari driver, lining up alongside Charles Leclerc for what could turn out to be one final shot at winning a record eighth world championship.
Jolyon Palmer says something strange happened to Hamilton in 2024, enduring a troubled campaign where he failed to get out of Q1 in three of his last six races – the same number as his first 270 Grand Prix.
The two wins Lewis Hamilton picked up, including a record ninth at the British Grand Prix were highlights, but the general consensus is that a fresh start is exactly what he needs for 2025.
Martin Brundle says ‘vintage’ Lewis Hamilton returned at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
Admittedly, there wasn’t much blame to be laid on Hamilton for his shock Abu Dhabi Q1 elimination which left him to start 15th for the race.
His Mercedes team made an error, forcing the seven-time champion to carve his way through the field to an impressive fourth place on Sunday.
READ MORE: Intensive talks taking place for circuit Lewis Hamilton called ‘terrifying’ to return to F1 in 2026
Sky Sports pundit Martin Brundle mentioned in a post-race column that the Brit showed shades of his former self with his drive during the race.
Brundle said: “Hamilton’s fourth place in the race, spectacularly passing team-mate George Russell around the outside of turn nine on the final lap, was another outstanding drive from 16th on the grid.
“After a bizarre qualifying when he collected a corner marker bollard dislodged by Magnussen who was trying to get out of his way.
“It was vintage Hamilton and a fitting end to his 84-victory, six-world-championship residence at Mercedes. Cue tears and emotion all around for him and the team.”
Why 2025 could be even tougher for Lewis Hamilton
After losing the qualifying battle (including Sprint Races) 24-6 to teammate George Russell in 2024, things won’t get any easier for him from next year.
Leclerc is possibly the fastest driver on the grid over one lap, and he won’t relent alongside his new teammate – he has a point to prove.
READ MORE: Nico Rosberg spotted George Russell’s ‘ultimate sign of respect’ to Lewis Hamilton on the Abu Dhabi GP grid
Ferrari have the critical advantage over McLaren of more wind tunnel time for 2026 when the technical regulations change, which should help them continue to compete with their nearest rivals.
But, as with any big change within Formula 1, the pecking order can change overnight with such drastic changes, so making the most of 2025 will be important.
Starting with a good car will put Hamilton under pressure to adapt and make use of it quickly, but if he can manage to do so, it will set up an all-time fight for the championship.
