May 22, (THEWILL) – Italian Formula 1 team Ferrari is reportedly making moves to lure seven-time world champion, Lewis Hamilton, away from rival team Mercedes.
Reports suggest that Ferrari President, John Elkann, has been engaging in close communication with the 38-year-old British driver, who currently shares the record for most championships with Ferrari legend, Michael Schumacher. This comes after Hamilton expressed his intention to re-sign with Mercedes as his contract comes to an end this year.
However, Ferrari’s offer of $50 million may sway Hamilton’s decision. While the British driver narrowly missed securing an eighth championship in the 2021 season’s final race, the momentum has recently shifted towards Red Bull, with Max Verstappen charging towards his third consecutive world championship. This has led to Mercedes struggling to keep up with their rivals. Such circumstances have fueled speculation that Hamilton might consider a move to Ferrari.
The Italian team already has Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz under contract until 2024, but there have been rumours of a potential driver swap involving Hamilton. The possible move raises questions about Ferrari’s current driver lineup. While the team has reportedly initiated contract negotiations with Leclerc, there is speculation about the scenario where Leclerc might join Mercedes while Hamilton teams up with Sainz at Ferrari.
Mercedes team principal, Toto Wolff, when asked about Leclerc, emphasised that his focus remains on securing Hamilton’s contract extension. Hamilton himself has repeatedly stated that he intends to stay with Mercedes but acknowledged the allure of teams like McLaren and Ferrari, where he has always wondered what it would be like to don their colours.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
