Lewis Hamilton is heavily rumored to join Ferrari amidst his struggles at Mercedes. If an agreement is reached, he could earn between $40-50 million with the Maranello-based team. However, an Italian journalist, Piergiuseppe Donadoni, reveals that Ferrari has no intention of making an offer for the seven-time world champion as they have other plans.
The new report contradicts what has been publicized in the media so far. It was earlier believed that the Ferrari supremo John Elkann wants to have a super team in Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, which could make Carlos Sainz the de-facto scapegoat.
But Hamilton is reportedly sidelined by Ferrari amidst the boardroom discussions at Maranello. But what’s the priority decision the Italian team wants to fulfill, which can even compel Ferrari to ignore the most successful F1 driver ever?
Ferrari could snub Lewis Hamilton for Charles Leclerc
Leclerc is the superstar at Ferrari. However, he is in the second last year of his contract with them. So, Ferrari is aiming to deal with that as soon as possible. But that would come at a heavy cost. Therefore, according to Donadoni, Ferrari isn’t even interested in giving Hamilton a contract.
“No Ferrari offer to Hamilton, let alone more than 40 million euros. Ferrari is ready to speed up / close the renewal of Leclerc in a few months. Will the Monegasque be in the same hurry to close the deal? It is important to remember how Elkann closed with Vettel,” wrote Donadoni on Twitter [translated with Google].
If true, this development could collapse the biggest move in F1 in this decade so far. Meanwhile, the Brit would have to make some compromises on the way.
How can it transform Hamilton’s future in F1?
With Hamilton no more vying for the title and conspicuously being overpowered by his younger teammate George Russell, he may have to settle for a lower salary if he wants to remain at the Silver Arrows.
With Ferrari reportedly ejecting its interests, Hamilton probably has no bargaining chip for negotiations with Mercedes. The seven-time world champion after this season will be out of contract and therefore has to ensure his extension before it’s too late.
Probably by winter, it would be decided whether Hamilton will stay or not, as previous negotiations between the two parties have gone on for so long. But there is no doubt Hamilton will be on the grid next year, whether with Mercedes or not. Even at 38, he is still at the top of his powers.
