Martin Brundle, a prominent motorsport analyst, believes Lewis Hamilton will undergo a transition at Mercedes this year as the team prepares for his departure to Ferrari in 2025. Brundle suggests that Mercedes will gradually limit the information shared with Hamilton, favoring his successor, George Russell.
Brundle emphasizes that as Hamilton’s tenure with Mercedes nears its end, he may be excluded from meetings and discussions regarding car development and simulator work. This shift in approach, Brundle explains, is essential for Mercedes to prioritize Russell’s integration into the team.
“You’ve got this transition point where Lewis will stop being invited to meetings,” the Sky Sports expert said.
“He won’t understand what’s going on with development of the car and in the simulator.
“The team consciously, subconsciously, will favour George.
“They have got to.”
Toto Wolff, Mercedes’ team principal, has expressed concerns about Hamilton potentially taking sensitive information to Ferrari. Brundle elaborates on the type of knowledge Hamilton could bring with him, including insights into car processes, preferences, and team dynamics.
However, Brundle notes the challenges Hamilton may face at Ferrari, such as language barriers and unfamiliarity with the team compared to drivers like Charles Leclerc. Hamilton may desire to bring some of his trusted personnel with him, but contractual restrictions could limit this.
Brundle predicts that despite the circumstances, Hamilton will give his all during his final season at Mercedes. He suggests that both Hamilton and Mercedes will view the season as a farewell tour, with the team ultimately hoping for a Ferrari defeat.
Asked what type of knowledge Hamilton could feasibly bring with him to Italy, Brundle explained: “Processes, philosophies, how the car works, what he likes, how he likes to sit, what he needs from a car to maximise his talent.
“He’s got to integrate. That’s hard. He won’t speak the language or know the team like Charles Leclerc does.
“You need to find out where all the buttons are to press.
“That’s why Lewis, I think, will want to try to take a few people with him.
“But there will be non-compete clauses so he can’t do that.
“You want to take some of your own gang with you, when you go. So you can hit the ground running.”
Simon Lazenby, another commentator, acknowledges the exceptional nature of Hamilton’s situation and suggests that Mercedes owes him respect as a champion. Lazenby anticipates that Hamilton will maintain professionalism throughout the season, and Mercedes will support whichever driver is best positioned for success.
Overall, the consensus among analysts is that while Hamilton’s departure may introduce challenges, both he and Mercedes will approach the situation with professionalism and respect for their shared history and accomplishments.
