Hamilton unfazed by people ‘talking shit’ about Ferrari move

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Lewis Hamilton says he’s unfazed by the naysayers who continue to doubt his decision to leave Mercedes and join Ferrari in 2025, insisting the call does not need “vindicating”.

The seven-time world champion caught everyone off guard at the end of February when he announced his move to the Scuderia, activating a clause in his Mercedes contract.

The decision, fueled by a desire for a fresh challenge, has sparked endless debate, leaving the Briton to face ongoing chatter and questions about his choice.

On Thursday in Shanghai, ahead of this weekend’s Chinese GP, Hamilton was asked if Mercedes’ current struggles were a confirmation of an astute choice on his part.

Read also: Hamilton planning talks with Wolff to manage Ferrari transition

"Well, I don't feel like I need my decision vindicating,” he replied. “I think I know what's right for me, and that hasn't changed since the moment that I made the decision.

"There's not been a moment where I've questioned it, and I'm not swayed by other people's comments. Even today, there's people continuing to talk shit, and it will continue on for the rest of the year.

"And I'll have to just do what I did in the previous time. Only you can know what is right for you. And it will be an exciting time for me."

At 39, Hamilton insists his drive and motivation remain intact, with no plans to slow down anytime soon as he expects to continue racing well into his 40s, like his fellow F1 veteran Fernando Alonso.

"I am going to be racing for quite some time still," he said. "So, it's definitely good that he's still around, I hope that he keeps going for a little bit longer as well.

"I never thought that I'd be racing into my 40s. I'm pretty sure I said I wouldn't go into my 40s racing, but I think it's such a crazy trip, life, that I don't feel like I'm nearly 40 years old.

“I feel really young still."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.