Lewis Hamilton revealed he is approaching his Ferrari move with the “same focus” as when he arrived at Mercedes, the previous time he changed teams in Formula 1.
The countdown is on until Hamilton’s much-anticipated maiden outing with Ferrari, having penned a deal with the Maranello-based squad almost 12 months ago now.
The Briton hopes his switch proves as well-timed as his last, with his move to the works Mercedes side in 2013 responsible for six of his seven record-equalling titles.
However, Hamilton goes into his Ferrari stint having experienced a taxing final campaign with the German marque that even prompted him to question his own speed.
Hamilton’s struggles at certain points with Mercedes’ recalcitrant W15 witnessed him express that he “underestimated how difficult” his transition to Ferrari would be.
But while he’s acknowledged the challenge ahead in adapting to a new environment again, Hamilton has emphasised he is as committed as ever to pursuing success.
“Of course it really sparks motivation and it’s a dream scenario for any driver to have an opportunity like this,” Hamilton told media including Motorsport Week.
“So, [I] don’t take that for granted.
“Also, you know, massive respect for Carlos [Sainz] and everything he’s done within the team.
“And I realise it’s a steep… I remember when I joined Mercedes, and it’s not an easy step to ever enter into a new team.
“And it takes time to build new relationships and learn the tools and everything.
“Coming into next year with that same focus, that same might that I had when I joined Mercedes and with ultimately that leap of faith, I think is exciting and exhilarating.”
Hamilton not ‘comparing’ with Schumacher
Hamilton will be chasing an unprecedented eighth title during his spell with Ferrari, a team which hasn’t tasted success since seizing the Constructors’ crown in 2008.
Fernando Alonso and Sebastian Vettel, two multiple F1 champions, came up short in their bid to end the drought, as Red Bull, Mercedes and McLaren have won since.
Put to him that he is endeavouring to replicate what Michael Schumacher, the driver he shares seven championships with, managed in delivering success back to Ferrari, Hamilton responded: “I mean, I’m not looking at comparing myself to Michael. Not looking at that. At the moment, that’s not something that I’m thinking about.
“Obviously, I’m trying to think about making sure that finish off the right way and the best way possible with Mercedes. These next days are going to be super emotional.
“It’s all a big unknown for what’s up ahead. Obviously, massive excitement. I can’t really add much more at the moment. I don’t have anything else to say about it.”
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