As the 2025 Formula 1 season approaches, Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has generated significant buzz. However, Red Bull advisor Dr. Helmut Marko offers a tempered perspective, suggesting that the transition may not immediately yield championship results.
How does it look after pre-season testing in Bahrain?
Reflecting on pre-season testing in Bahrain, Marko observed that McLaren appears to be the frontrunner, with Red Bull closely following. He positions Ferrari as the third-strongest team, just ahead of Mercedes.
Marko noted in an interview with sport.de:
“In Bahrain, Leclerc was the clearly faster driver. But that’s normal. He knows the team, he knows the car. Hamilton drove a lot of laps, gradually improved, but wasn’t quite at Leclerc’s level. But it’s early days.”
Hamilton has to be on top in qualifying
Marko emphasises the importance of early qualifying sessions for Hamilton, stating:
“The one is a multiple world champion, the other is chasing his first title but is one of the best qualifiers. And given that the field is relatively close together, three or four-tenths difference in qualifying can make up three to five starting positions.
“And we know how difficult overtaking is nowadays. So, in this respect, it’s crucial for Hamilton to be on par with Leclerc in the first qualifying sessions. Which certainly isn’t easy.”
The number-one driver issue at Ferrari
He also highlights the absence of a clear number one driver at Ferrari, contrasting it with Red Bull’s structure centred around Max Verstappen.
Marko cautions that Hamilton’s motivation could wane if early victories are elusive, saying, “He has joined Ferrari of his own accord. He sought this new challenge, and I believe he will do everything to meet his expectations.
“But as I said, it’s early days. And again: Hamilton can improve supernaturally, but it could also be that if the factors don’t align, he sees no chance of winning, his motivation drops a little.”
As the season opener in Melbourne approaches, the dynamics between Hamilton and Leclerc will be a focal point, with fans and analysts keen to see how this partnership evolves within Ferrari’s ranks.
Feature Image Credit: Scuderia Ferrari
