Former Rival Warns Hamilton Against Potential Switch Amid Contract Renewal Talks

Lewis Hamilton has been cautioned by former rival Felipe Massa that leaving Mercedes could pose a significant risk. Hamilton’s contract with the team, where he has secured six of his record-equalling seven world titles, is set to expire at the end of 2023.

While it is widely expected that the 38-year-old will extend his tenure with Mercedes, the team’s inconsistent start to the current season has led to speculation about Hamilton exploring other options, with Ferrari cited as a potential new home.

Ahead of the Miami Grand Prix at Hard Rock Stadium, Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff described the team’s current challenges as “a nasty piece of work.” Nevertheless, Massa, who competed for Ferrari for eight seasons and narrowly lost the championship to Hamilton in 2008, expressed skepticism about a potential switch. “Anything is possible, but I have doubts that it will happen,” he remarked.

Massa highlighted the strong relationship Hamilton has with Mercedes, stating that any move to Ferrari would require certainty about the team’s ability to compete for championships. “Ferrari have not proved they have the car to win the championship. Going there would be a bit of a gamble,” he added. Massa further noted that since a move to Red Bull is unlikely due to the presence of Max Verstappen, he would advise Hamilton to remain with Mercedes.

As Hamilton approaches his 39th birthday in January, he remains focused on clinching his eighth title, even hinting at the possibility of racing well into his fifties. Massa, now 42 and retired from racing since 2017, reflected on the physical demands of the sport, acknowledging that age eventually takes its toll. “When I go to run, I suffer more than when I was 30 or 25,” he said.

Despite this, he believes Hamilton still has several competitive years ahead, citing Fernando Alonso’s impressive performance at 41. “Lewis just doesn’t have the car, but maybe that will change,” Massa concluded.