Horner: Strong start with Ferrari could make Hamilton a ‘real factor’

Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has weighed in on Lewis Hamilton’s prospects with Ferrari for 2025, suggesting the seven-time world champion’s could be a force to be reckoned with – provided he makes a strong start.

Hamilton’s sensational high-profile switch to the Scuderia marks a bold late-career gamble for the Briton, who left Mercedes after a decade of success that included six drivers’ titles and unprecedented dominance during F1’s hybrid era.

At 40 years old, Hamilton’s move to Ferrari fulfills a long-held dream of driving for the House of Maranello.

But questions remain about how well the Briton will adapt to the team’s environment and to the Italian outfit’s car, given his struggles in recent seasons at Mercedes.

A Fresh Challenge

However, Horner acknowledges the magnitude of Hamilton’s decision and its potential impact on the sport.

"He obviously felt, and it looked from the outside looking in, that the relationship between them [Hamilton and Mercedes] had perhaps become a bit stale.

• Read also: Coulthard labels Hamilton ‘biggest disappointment’ of 2024

“So he felt that he needed to make a move," commented Horner, quote by RacingNews365.

"It might just be the impetus and motivation that he needs to fire himself up again."

Ferrari ended the 2024 season with a competitive car, especially during the latter half of the year, and much of that development is expected to carry over into the 2025 campaign.

Horner believes Hamilton could capitalize on that momentum if he starts the season strongly.

"Ferrari had a competitive car, certainly towards the second half of the year. One can imagine if Lewis gets off to a good start, him being a real factor,” said the Red Bull chief.

“It'll be a completely new environment for him, quite different to what he's used to. If he manages to immerse himself in that, settle quickly, and get off to a good start, then you always build momentum from there."

The Leclerc Factor

Hamilton’s arrival at Ferrari will also mean sharing the garage with Charles Leclerc, widely regarded as one of the fastest and most talented drivers on the grid.

But having spent several years with Ferrari, the Monegasque intimately understands the team's dynamics and is expected to provide stiff competition.

Horner emphasized the importance of Hamilton hitting the ground running.

"Of course, he’s going into a team where he’s got a very strong team-mate in Charles Leclerc, who is very quick and knows the team inside out.

“So that’s why it’s vital for him to get out the blocks well at the start of the year."

Age: A Barrier or Just a Number?

Hamilton celebrated his 40th birthday earlier this week. But Horner believes age won't define the Briton's performance, even though Formula 1 often sees it as a limiting factor.

He pointed to Fernando Alonso, who remains competitive in his 40s, as evidence that experience can outweigh age.

"I don’t think age needs to be a barrier," Horner remarked. "If you look at Fernando Alonso [43], he’s got a fair few years left in him.

“You’re judged on how you perform, not on how old you are. Irrelevant of age, it’s about how you deliver on track.

“At the end of the day, age is just a number, and he’ll be judged on what he does, not on being a child of the 1980s.”

A New Chapter for a F1 Legend

Hamilton’s decision to leave the comfort of Mercedes for the challenge of Ferrari represents one of the most intriguing storylines heading into the new season.

While some may question whether the move is too risky for a driver at this stage of his career, Horner’s comments underscore the potential for the 105-time Grand Prix winner to shine if he adapts quickly and maintains the high standards that have defined his career.

With a strong car, a formidable team-mate, and a legendary team eager to reclaim championship glory, Hamilton’s Ferrari chapter could indeed add a new layer of drama to the 2025 Formula 1 season.

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