McLaren’s Stella on Hamilton’s Ferrari move: ‘I’m excited myself’

©Ferrari

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McLaren F1 team principal Andrea Stella, a man with deep Ferrari roots, isn’t just observing Lewis Hamilton’s endeavor with the Scuderia from afar; he’s genuinely ‘excited’ by the seven-time world champion’s move to Maranello.

Hamilton’s transition from Mercedes to Ferrari has dominated headlines for the past twelve months, and for good reasons.

A driver of his caliber joining the most iconic team in motorsport history is a moment etched in F1 folklore.

The significance of the Briton’s blockbuster transfer hasn't been lost on anyone, least of all on Stella who spent 15 years working with Ferrari before moving to McLaren.

A Fan's Perspective, a Team Principal's Focus

Unsurprisingly, the Italian feels the magnitude of the moment keenly.

“Observing from a distance I can say that I think the way it is, at least for how this has been reported, it was a great introduction of Lewis to Ferrari,” Stella told Sky Sports at the Autosport Awards last week.

“To be honest, as a fan of Formula 1, by having been 15 years at Ferrari before, I felt excited myself to see something that is historic for Formula 1, a seven-time World Champion going to Ferrari, one of the most iconic teams.”

The Real Test Begins on Track

While Hamilton’s high-profile unveiling at Maranello and his early outings in Ferrari’s 2023 challenger have captured the world’s attention, the real test awaits when the 2025 season begins in earnest at the end of the month in Bahrain.

Stella acknowledges the buzz surrounding the move but insists that performance on track will be the ultimate measure of success.

“I think Ferrari and Hamilton handled this very well, but ultimately – I’m sure they know very well – what counts is what’s happening on track,” he said.

The initial excitement, the fanfare, all of that fades when the lights go out. Stella's focus shifts to the competitive landscape, the challenge that McLaren faces.

A Battle Looms

After securing their first title since 1998 by edging out Ferrari in a thrilling 2024 battle, team papaya is determined to ensure Hamilton’s transition to his new outfit isn’t too smooth.

“So, you know, after the initial excitement, I’m sure they will focus very much on making sure that the preparation is good and, on our side, we will try and make their life a little bit difficult,” Stella added.

©Ferrari

It's a respectful rivalry, a recognition of the magnitude of the challenge, but also a declaration of intent.

With Hamilton stepping into a Ferrari team eager to reclaim its place at the pinnacle of F1 and McLaren entering 2025 as the reigning champions, the stage is set for an electrifying season.

Stella may appreciate the history unfolding before him, but make no mistake – McLaren is ready to fight to keep Ferrari and Hamilton at bay.

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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.