Hamilton doesn’t mind waiting to test at Ferrari, even if it makes next season difficult

Lewis Hamilton has said he is “totally okay” with waiting until next year to have his first test with Ferrari in Formula 1, even though it could make life difficult for him as he begins his move from Mercedes.

The seven-time world champion will replace Spaniard Carlos Sainz in the Italian team, but Mercedes will keep his contract until the end of the year to meet commitments to its sponsor.

This means Hamilton will not be free for post-season testing in Abu Dhabi after next month’s final at Yas Marina.

The possibility had been discussed after Ferrari agreed to let Sainz test for new employer Williams.

“I was on the verge of driving the red car for the first time in Abu Dhabi. It’s not exciting,” Hamilton told reporters ahead of the Qatar Grand Prix.

“In a perfect world, you could drive it, not be seen, and have the first performance next year.”

“When I told (Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff) about it… they had all these plans that I should go and see some of the sponsors and say hello.”

“I don’t think this would ever be allowed… because I have a contract with the team until December 31st and everything is fine,” he added.

Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur said he does not expect the British driver, winner of 105 races, to need much time to adapt to the new environment.

“Am I missing something? Absolutely,” Hamilton said. “It definitely slows down the process and makes the start of the year more difficult. But we will do our best to recover.”

Pre-season will begin in Bahrain in February, but Hamilton is expected to do a closed test in Italy in January in an older Ferrari.

Source: Terra

Rose

Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.