From culture to language, Lewis Hamilton will be dealing — adjusting and readjusting — with many variables while joining Ferrari next season. One of the elements that would require his immediate attention is the engine. The seven-time world champion has only driven Mercedes-powered cars through his 17-year career in F1. The Ferrari power unit will have a different feel and nature. While it may not be an easy transition, it won’t be an issue for Hamilton, believes Guenther Steiner.
The former Haas Team Principal revealed why he felt the transition would be easier for Hamilton unlike what many believe. To start with, modern electronic tools make it possible to adjust each car’s power delivery to suit a driver’s style. The key for Hamilton is fine-tuning.
“What they will do is they will drive this thing in the simulator until the cows come home, so that he understands how to best use the engine, you know. How to recharge [the battery] and all that good stuff, when to use the power, and how long you have it available. I don’t see a problem because Lewis will put some effort in so he’s ready in Australia [first race of the 2025 season] next year,” added Steiner, talking on the Red Flags podcast.
Guenther Steiner on Sir Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari
“Can you imagine if he starts to win with Ferrari, like he does now with Mercedes?”
“What a hero he will be to the world. I mean, he’s already a legend without a doubt, but if he takes Ferrari to a world championship, and I… pic.twitter.com/s1T75MDlDO
— sim (@sim3744) August 10, 2024
Steiner stated that Hamilton would be well and truly ready by the time the season begins since he would be putting in the work during pre-season.
Hamilton had an enviable and unstoppable run with Mercedes since he joined the outfit in 2013. Prior to that, Mercedes powered the McLaren cars he drove in his early years in F1. The Brackley-based outfit supported him during his junior days as well.
The Ferrari shift, at this stage of the career, is a big move for Hamilton. Steiner, however, is not too worried about the changes and its potential to hamper the 39-year-old on the grid.
Ferrari won’t be too different
Steiner explained that engine performance across teams is not as varied as many think.
“I think that will be no problem for him. The engines are very similar in terms of performance and power,” he stated, referring to the slight differences in power output resulting from the FIA’s engine freeze implemented at the end of 2023.
Steiner did not brush aside the learning curve Hamilton will go through. But the British legend has more than 350 race starts in F1, and is experienced enough to handle the challenge.
Hamilton, a stickler for preparation, is likely to spend countless hours in the simulator to make sure he’s ready to deliver from the opening race.
Another motivating element is the knowledge that, if things go according to plan, this could be his final stint in F1. He’ll be able to deliver that elusive championship for Ferrari and strengthen his legacy in the sport — a win-win for both.
