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Ferrari’s “Tailor-Made” Car for Charles Leclerc Might Hamper Lewis Hamilton’s 8th Title Journey, Says Häkkinen

Published 03/06/2024, 8:44 AM EST

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via Reuters

Lewis Hamilton moving to Ferrari sounds like a great deal on paper but how much is the Prancing Horse doing for him? Well, it’s safe to say–a lot. The 7-time world champion has been offered the biggest yearly salary according to his upcoming term. Along with that, Hamilton is going to be the brand ambassador for one of the most legendary brands in automobile history. But will this help him win his 8th world championship?

Although Ferrari is generously investing in the Briton, will they be able to give him a car that competes for the world championship? As this transfer is the talk of the town, many figures are speaking their mind on the situation, including legendary McLaren world champion, Mika Häkkinen.

Ferrari might favor Charles Leclerc more

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Mika Häkkinen has kept a close eye on the sport even after his retirement. The Flying Finn recently spoke about why Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari would not help the Briton win another championship. PlanetF1 reported this bold claim and the problem that was pointed out was–Charles Leclerc. Although the two drivers share a friendly relationship off the track, Ferrari has been committed to designing the car according to Leclerc’s liking.

via Reuters

The 55-year-old former driver spoke about Lewis Hamilton saying, I can see that he wants to win, of course, like everyone else wants to win.” About Hamilton’s time in Mercedes, the former McLaren driver said, “I think he probably experienced that, with the Mercedes, maybe he thinks the Mercedes isn’t able to give him a car where he can win. Probably he’s seeing the opportunity that, with Ferrari, they can bring him a car where he can win.”

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But finding a problem with what Hamilton believes Mercedes lacks and Ferrari can deliver, he said, “You have Charles Leclerc over there, and he has been with the team for a long time. He’s a very talented young driver and the car is tailor-made for him. So it’s not going to be so straightforward, in my opinion.”

With Ferrari’s recent commitment to nurture Leclerc’s talents and to provide him with a car that he is comfortable with, this might overlap their promises to Lewis Hamilton. Ultimately, the car should be made to be competitive, but with chances of extra attention to Leclerc, Hamilton’s needs might feel neglected. But conversely, there is also a possibility of Leclerc getting sidelined again. But will he get in Lewis Hamilton‘s way of fighting for the 8th World Championship?

Mika Hakkinen’s take on Lewis Hamilton surpassing Michael Schumacher

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Hakkinen was asked about his thoughts on the Briton being able to win his 8th world championship in Ferrari. To this, the 2-time world champion replied, “That’s impossible to say. It’s all about the car.” This instills his confidence in Hamilton being worthy of leading the grid again. But about Ferrari, he added, “If they’re able to build the car and fix the problems that they have, then there is a possibility.”

Lewis Hamilton has reached legendary status with his 7 world championship wins and having the same record as Michael Schumacher has fans wondering if he will be able to surpass him. Currently, Hamilton is not in his prime and is on the verge of retirement. Entering Ferrari at 40 will come with some disadvantages that younger drivers have over him, but yet again, nothing is impossible in Formula One.

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What are your thoughts on Lewis Hamilton winning his 8th title with Ferrari? Do you think it will be possible, or remain a dream that might never come true? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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Written by:

Viren Mirpuri

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Viren Mirpuri is an F1 Writer at EssentiallySports. With a Degree in Mass Media and a Specialization in Journalism, Viren is known for his speedy race day coverage outside of discussing the engine technicalities. Whether he's dissecting the latest technical innovations or unraveling the drama on and off the track, he ensures that his readers stay engaged and informed.
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Edited by:

Akash Pandhare