Fernando Alonso has taken a swipe at Formula One rival Lewis Hamilton following the surprising announcement of Hamilton’s move to Ferrari.
Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari in 2025 marks the end of his remarkable 11-year tenure with Mercedes.
The seven-time world champion reportedly had a secret “escape” clause in his recent Mercedes contract, inked in August 2023. This maneuver paved the way for him to replace Carlos Sainz at Ferrari and team up with Charles Leclerc.
Hamilton expressed that driving for Ferrari fulfills a “childhood dream,” but Alonso, his former teammate back in 2007, seems skeptical.
Addressing the media, the Aston Martin driver remarked, “It was not his childhood dream 12 months ago, no? Or two months ago, I guess. It was a different dream.”
Alonso and Hamilton had a highly publicized falling out years ago, leading to the Spaniard’s departure from McLaren by mutual consent. Despite their past differences, Alonso holds a level of respect for Hamilton and views the move as positive.
He remarked, “I hope he enjoys the experience. I think it’s a very special team. But it’s more special when you win. It’s been a few years already since they had a very fast car and were fighting for big things. Maybe Lewis can bring that extra to fight for the championship because the car is there.”
Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari is expected to trigger a ripple effect, potentially opening up his spot at Mercedes.
Speculation suggests Alonso could be considered as Hamilton’s replacement at Mercedes. However, the two-time Formula One world champion maintains that there are no updates regarding a possible move.
“On the Mercedes theme, no, nothing at all,” Alonso clarified. “I know the driver market has started earlier this year, then probably June or July, which is the normal timing, but this will not affect me at all, in terms of preparing for the season.
We have very limited testing in Bahrain. I cannot think too much about the future right now. I will have to see and wait for a few races. I’m aware of my situation, which is unique.”
