Lewis Hamilton’s blockbuster transfer to Ferrari for the 2025 Formula 1 season has ignited fierce debate among fans and pundits alike. While the seven-time world champion’s recent form has been labeled “underwhelming” over the past three years, Italian racing veteran Davide Valsecchi insists it would be “foolish” to call Ferrari’s decision a mistake. Published on April 2, 2025, in Corriere della Sera, Valsecchi’s comments come as Hamilton navigates a challenging start with the iconic Maranello team, raising questions about his ability to reclaim past glory.

A Rocky Debut in Red

Hamilton’s Ferrari journey began with a lackluster 10th-place finish at the Australian Grand Prix, a stark contrast to the expectations set by his illustrious career. The 40-year-old showed glimpses of his old magic by clinching a sprint race win in China last weekend—his third victory since the 2022 season—after starting from pole. However, the main race in Shanghai exposed persistent struggles. Both Hamilton and teammate Charles Leclerc were disqualified due to separate infractions, with Hamilton’s car failing post-race scrutiny for excessive skid block wear. This marked the second such incident in 18 months, following a similar disqualification at the 2023 US Grand Prix during his Mercedes tenure.

Critics, including some who attribute a misquote to Ferrari boss Frederic Vasseur calling the signing a “mistake,” have pounced on Hamilton’s early struggles. Yet, Valsecchi sees a broader perspective that transcends on-track results.

Beyond the Stopwatch: Hamilton’s Commercial Impact

Despite the shaky start, Hamilton’s arrival has already paid dividends off the track. Ferrari’s apparel partner, Puma, reported an astonishing eightfold surge in sales since the British driver joined the team—a clear sign of his enduring marketability. For Valsecchi, this commercial success validates Ferrari’s gamble. “In testing, he was flying, and then he showed up like a star,” Valsecchi said. “Without him, you wouldn’t have this image comeback. At Maranello, they’ve already won.”

Valsecchi, a former GP2 (now F2) champion in 2012 and ex-Lotus test driver, acknowledges Hamilton’s racing limitations at this stage of his career. He contrasts Hamilton with reigning champion Max Verstappen, noting, “With Verstappen, you’d have the number one spot on the track. With Lewis, you don’t.” He added, “He’s fast in the wet, reliable, and doesn’t crash much—but the last three years have been subpar. At 40, you’re not the same as at 25. Lose two-tenths off your peak, and you’re not beating Charles.”

Leclerc: The Real Threat?

Charles Leclerc, Ferrari’s young star, looms as Hamilton’s biggest obstacle. Valsecchi believes that even a marginal decline in Hamilton’s speed could leave him trailing his teammate, who benefits from fluency in Italian and a deep bond with the team. This view aligns with remarks from TV host and F1 enthusiast Jeremy Clarkson, who suggested Hamilton’s move might reflect a desire to experience Ferrari’s storied legacy rather than a conviction he can dominate. “He’ll have to work hard to beat Leclerc, who knows the team and is seen as the fastest in one-lap shootouts,” Clarkson said. “Maybe he signed with Ferrari knowing his best days are behind him, unwilling to retire without driving for the world’s most prestigious team.”

Chasing an Elusive Eighth Title

Hamilton’s ultimate goal—an eighth world championship—remains a driving force. Denied the record in controversial fashion at the 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, he’s openly expressed his desire to achieve it with Ferrari, a team that hasn’t won a title since 2008. Valsecchi, however, would prefer a Ferrari triumph led by Leclerc. When asked whether he’d rather see Inter Milan win the Champions League or Ferrari reclaim F1 glory, he chose “red—but only if Leclerc wins.”

A High-Stakes Bet for Ferrari

Hamilton’s early 2025 performances may not inspire confidence, but his off-track influence and flashes of brilliance suggest Ferrari’s investment could yet bear fruit. Valsecchi’s defense underscores a calculated risk: Hamilton brings more than speed—he brings prestige and experience to a squad hungry to end its drought. Whether he can outpace Leclerc and deliver a championship remains uncertain, but as Clarkson concluded, “Whatever the reason, I wish him luck.” For now, Ferrari and Hamilton are banking on his legacy—and a bit of magic—to turn the tide.