As we have extensively reported, yesterday brought a real bombshell from England in terms of Formula 1 driver market news: colleagues from the Daily Mail claim that Scuderia Ferrari is willing to pay a monstrous sum to secure the services of Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion currently with Mercedes. As a result, all Ferrari fans began to wonder: what’s true behind this story? If it is indeed true, which of its drivers will the Maranello team give up?
Through the columns of his blog on quotidiano.net, Formula 1 journalist and expert Leo Turrini, who is well-known for having inside information from within Maranello, wanted to share his thoughts on the matter, also addressing Charles Leclerc’s contractual situation. Below is an excerpt of his most important statements.
Lewis Hamilton – Ferrari – Charles Leclerc, Leo Turrini’s comment
“Obviously, the news reported by the Daily Mail about an alleged negotiation between John Elkann and Lewis Hamilton has caused a chaotic situation. It’s understandable,” Leo Turrini emphasizes in his analysis titled “Hamilton-Ferrari, what’s true” published on his quotidiano.net blog.
The Italian journalist then added: “Let me start with the usual thing, already highlighted in the past and unfortunately misunderstood by those who ignore reality. Look, in Formula 1, everyone talks to everyone. Examples, how many do you want? However, that doesn’t mean these talks necessarily result in an agreement. In 1998, Schumi, somewhat disappointed with Ferrari, listened to a proposal from Ron Dennis. And then, luckily for me, he decided to stay in Maranello.”
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The journalist further clarifies the concept: “Lewis Hamilton has an expiring contract. He can legitimately consider all kinds of possibilities. From retirement to staying at Mercedes to moving elsewhere. I insist: there’s nothing abnormal. Nothing scandalous about it.” – Leo Turrini pointed out.
And indeed, the Ferrari senior management has never hidden its admiration for the seven-time Formula 1 world champion:
“John Elkann highly values Lewis. It’s not new news. It has been written often, including by me. And frankly, I would be surprised if it were otherwise: we’re talking about an absolute superstar. On this point, I want to be drastic. If someone believes Hamilton is declining, it’s understandable. It’s a respectable opinion and Lewis has many years behind him. However, it’s absurd to debate his incredible abilities. He has contributed to making Formula One history. Denying it is pathetic,” says Leo Turrini in his article. He then delves into the matter of a possible swap between the British driver and Charles Leclerc: “In the case of considering a possible exchange, I would keep Leclerc for the generational advantage and for what he has already shown he’s worth. I always hope that Carletto and Ferrari find a long-term agreement. So far, nothing has been announced, but there is still time. We don’t have a championship-winning car, and we know it. In the present, Hamilton wouldn’t have one either. I believe Lewis is perfectly aware of that.” – the Italian journalist believes.
Finally, he takes a stand and responds to a frequently asked question on social media during these hours: “If Charles Leclerc were to imagine a future away from Ferrari, would I take Lewis Hamilton if he were available? The answer is: absolutely yes.” – Leo Turrini admitted.
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