The news about the English driver stirred the paddock even before the car presentations. A historic move, with the most successful driver ever joining the most iconic and decorated team in F1. This move is reminiscent of 1989, when the “Lion of England” chose to race for the Scuderia. For Paddy Lowe, it will be similar, so much so that he compared Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari to Nigel Mansell’s move between the late 80s and early 90s.
The English engineer, who needs no introduction, worked closely with the seven-time world champion. Together, they won Lewis Hamilton’s first three world titles, in 2008 with McLaren and in 2014-2015 with Mercedes. Knowing Lewis Hamilton well, the move to Ferrari reminded Lowe of Nigel Mansell’s move to the Scuderia from Williams, where he worked at the time.
The news of Nigel Mansell’s move made headlines worldwide and was extraordinary, as Mansell had achieved iconic status among fans during those years. His “all or nothing” exploits were highly appreciated, earning him the nickname “The Lion” for his bravery.
“I think Lewis will bring a lot to the team and they will bring a lot to him,” said Lowe, who was a technical director and engineer at McLaren before joining Mercedes in 2013 as executive director. “I congratulate them on the hire and wish both of them well together. The last move I remember being somewhat like this was when Nigel dramatically left Ferrari when I was at Williams.”
“He was christened ‘The Lion,’ and it was a real moment. You remember what a star he was there. He fought with that car to achieve incredible results.” Regarding the possibility that Ferrari has found its new ‘Lion’ in Lewis Hamilton, Paddy Lowe added: “I hope so.”
Lowe then focused on the potential effects of Lewis Hamilton joining Ferrari, with the driver possibly revitalizing the Scuderia after tough years. “When a driver of Lewis’s caliber, an exceptional driver by all standards, comes to work and drives your car – and I tell you this from Nigel’s effect at Williams – it psychologically strengthens the team.”
“Lewis, undeniably, is a phenomenon. On one hand, you say, ‘Wow! He is going to maximize my work, he’s going to push this car to its limits.’ This comment indicates the influence a driver like Lewis Hamilton, a legend of the sport, has. The Scuderia will therefore have to give their best not to be outdone by the seven-time world champion.” – the former Mercedes and Williams engineer concluded.
Source: f1ingenerale
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