Ferrari president John Elkann believes that Lewis Hamilton has defied the age barrier, much like Novak Djokovic and Cristiano Ronaldo. In an interview with the Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport, Elkann expressed that older drivers have shown greater consistency in their performances.
When Hamilton joins Ferrari, he will be 40 years old, donning the famous scarlet overalls. Concerns about age affecting performance have been dispelled by drivers like Fernando Alonso and Kimi Raikkonen in the past. Alonso, a two-time champion, is now 42 and still competing at a high level.
Elkann compared Hamilton to athletes in other sports, such as Djokovic, Roger Federer, Ronaldo, and Simone Biles, who have proven that age does not hinder performance. He also suggested that older F1 drivers have shown increased consistency, citing Hamilton and Alonso as examples.
When asked about Hamilton joining Ferrari at 40, Elkann responded, “Federer, Biles, Ronaldo, Messi, and Paltrinieri have all shown that with dedication and sacrifice, they can push beyond the physical limitations of age. We are in an era where people live longer, and athletes’ careers are extending as well. In Formula 1, we now have real competition among four teams—Red Bull, Ferrari, McLaren, and Mercedes—so it’s important to maximize potential. Those with more experience, like Hamilton and Alonso, have demonstrated greater consistency, and that consistency is crucial.”
Elkann indicated that Hamilton is joining Ferrari with the goal of securing his eighth world title. The seven-time champion has previously expressed his desire to achieve this milestone before retiring.
Ferrari’s president emphasized that Hamilton is not joining the team to “enjoy retirement.” In recent years, a struggling Mercedes has hindered Hamilton’s ability to compete at the front, but Elkann believes the Briton will be performing at a high level with Ferrari. He also mentioned that their agreement came together quickly, as both sides were eager to collaborate.
When asked if recruiting Hamilton was challenging, Elkann said, “Some things happen very quickly. This was the moment when he and Ferrari aligned. He wants to win his eighth title, and Ferrari wants to win, so with Lewis, they are stronger. He’s not coming to Ferrari to enjoy retirement; it’s crucial to have motivated people who want to win.”
Speculation about Hamilton joining Ferrari began mid-season in 2023, with Hamilton initially dismissing the rumors and renewing his contract with Mercedes. However, whispers about his meeting with Elkann in Las Vegas persisted. In February, Hamilton surprised the motorsport world by announcing his move to Ferrari, a decision welcomed by many. With Ferrari’s storied history in Formula 1 and a seven-time champion in their ranks, the partnership is set to be intriguing as both parties aim for more world titles.
