Herbert: A good Ferrari-Hamilton can definitely win another F1 title

Former F1 driver and FIA steward Johnny Herbert has weighed in on the significance of Hamilton’s move to Maranello, drawing comparisons to past legends and emphasising the impact the 40-year-old libing legend could have on Ferrari’s pursuit of championship glory.

Herbert is optimistic about Hamilton’s ability to elevate Ferrari’s performance, citing his unique ability to guide engineering development. He explained: “The motivation at Ferrari, combined with a good car that can give him the speed he needs to beat everybody else, means Lewis Hamilton can definitely win another championship. The motivation is going to be key, and Hamilton’s ability to communicate what he needs from the car will be crucial.

“There’s always a human element that has to come into play,” Herbert continued. “Someone like Hamilton has that wonderful ability to explain what’s going on underneath him in the car. The man I first saw bring this to a team was Michael Schumacher. He ensured Rory Byrne, Ross Brawn, and Jean Todt understood his needs, which allowed them to give him the tools to succeed. Hamilton can bring that same power to Ferrari.”

Herbert also noted the evolving role of driver feedback in modern F1, where simulators and algorithms often take precedence: “As we’ve seen with Mercedes, listening to the drivers can make all the difference. Hamilton’s insights could be transformative for Ferrari.”

Hamilton, who has openly expressed his excitement about joining Ferrari, appears reinvigorated by the new challenge. Reflecting on his first drive in the SF-23, Hamilton said: “I’ve been lucky enough to have many firsts in my career, but driving a Ferrari car for the first time this morning was one of the best feelings of my life. Starting the car up and driving through that garage door brought back emotions I haven’t felt in years. The passion here in Maranello is infectious, and I can’t wait to get started.”

Herbert believes this fresh motivation, coupled with Ferrari’s improvements, could make 2025 a pivotal year. “2025 is a good opportunity for Ferrari to bring a much more competitive package. The timing feels right, especially with Hamilton’s hunger for an eighth title.”

While Hamilton is the centre of attention, Leclerc remains focused on the season ahead. After his first run of the year, the Monegasque driver remarked: “The first day back in the car is always a great feeling after the holidays. It was special to see Lewis driving his first laps in a Ferrari, a big moment for the team and for him. Feeling all this excitement surrounding the team is very motivating.”

Herbert acknowledged the potential for Ferrari to thrive with two strong drivers. “This is the perfect scenario for Ferrari. Hamilton brings fresh energy, and Leclerc, entering his eighth season, knows the team inside out. Together, they could finally deliver the championship Ferrari has been chasing.” Since 2008!

Herbert also highlighted McLaren as a potential threat in 2025, praising the progress of Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri: “McLaren have built great momentum over the last couple of years. They’ve been close, but now they need to translate that into winning. It’s the same for Ferrari—close isn’t enough anymore.”

Looking ahead, Herbert summarised the stakes: “Whether it’s Hamilton and Ferrari or Norris and McLaren or Max Verstappen and Red Bull , this year promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. The sport is lucky to have drivers like Hamilton pushing boundaries and inspiring the next generation.”