With the new Ferrari SF-25, rivals are strongly backing Lewis Hamilton for the F1 drivers’ championship. Following the conclusion of the F1-75 LIVE event, it’s time to take Maranello’s new single-seater to the track. Today, February 19, the team will already be on track at Fiorano for the 200 km allowed by the filming day— a shakedown that promises answers (albeit partial ones) ahead of Bahrain.
The evening at the O2 Arena did not disappoint expectations. It was a new event, still in need of fine-tuning, but fully in line with Liberty Media and Formula 1’s communication strategy. The cars on display were merely showcars to present the liveries, but the teams compensated by sharing renders of their real single-seaters on social media.
The most anticipated car, without a doubt, was Ferrari. With a livery that aligns with recent leaks, the SF-25 was introduced to the Formula 1 world. A car that is “99% new” and, at first glance, appears truly packed with innovations. The drivers’ excitement was palpable, both sharing the same dream: to become champions with the Prancing Horse.
Hamilton and Leclerc: the first rival is the teammate
The Briton and the Monegasque have strong reasons to aim for the championship. One wants to enter legend by securing an eighth title that perhaps should have already been his in 2021. The other wants to finally begin his story by claiming the world crown that has seemed like a mere mirage for years. The young (not so much anymore) and the veteran, both reinvigorated by the Red that makes hearts race.
The strength of the machinery will, of course, be crucial. But even if the SF-25 outclasses the rest of the grid, one rival will stand out above all: their own teammate. It will be a true generational battle, where Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc will compete for the drivers’ title—something both dream of more than anything else.
A romantic SF-25 with Hamilton as champion
While the grid is well aware of #16’s abilities, the question remains about Lewis Hamilton’s untapped potential. Rivals, however, are strongly backing the Briton: “If he starts well, if the team supports him, if he finds confidence in himself, and if he harnesses that energy, then I see him as a real title contender,” says Christian Horner.
“A lot will depend on how well he integrates with the team in the first part of the season. We all know what Lewis is capable of, and if he finds new energy in a different environment, I think he could become a major factor to watch this year.”
This opinion is shared by Max Verstappen and Zak Brown, who have little trouble envisioning Lewis Hamilton fighting for the world title. One thing is certain: while managing two potential “alpha males in the same henhouse” is always risky, truly believing they can fight for the top of the championship standings is already a small victory for Ferrari after years of emptiness.
Source: f1ingenerale
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