Lewis Hamilton must be fully up to speed at Ferrari within three races of the 2025 Formula 1 season, Sky F1 pundit Martin Brundle has warned.
The seven-time world champion, who will make his Ferrari debut at the Australian Grand Prix on March 16, has already proven his worth despite not yet racing for the Italian team, according to Brundle.
Hamilton’s reported $57 million salary has been justified even before his first race in Ferrari red, the veteran commentator insisted.
Ferrari are reportedly prepared to implement team orders between Hamilton and Leclerc early in the 2025 season to maximise their championship chances.
Lewis Hamilton has left Mercedes for FerrariReuters
While the pair will start as equals, the opening races could prove decisive in establishing a new hierarchy within the team.
Team principal Fred Vasseur has previously indicated he won’t hesitate to make tough decisions on team orders when circumstances require.
The situation adds pressure on Hamilton, who admitted to not being “fast anymore” at the end of last season after struggling against George Russell in qualifying.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Brundle emphasised the urgency of Hamilton’s adaptation to Ferrari.
“There are no excuses at this level for anybody, even the rookies, but you might give the rookies half a season to get their act together, maximum,” he said.
Charles Leclerc will be Lewis Hamilton’s new team-matePA
“They will expect somebody like Lewis to have aced the people around him and the car within two or three races, to be honest.
“Never underestimate Lewis Hamilton.”
Despite the pressure, Brundle believes Hamilton will prove a valuable asset for Ferrari.
“Unquestionably. Already,” Brundle responded when asked if Hamilton was worth his salary.
The Sky F1 pundit described the partnership as “the gift that will keep giving,” highlighting the historic significance of the move.
“Two of the biggest names in the 75-year history of Formula 1 – some would maybe say the biggest two names in Ferrari and Hamilton – are getting together,” he said.
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Martin Brundle is tipping Lewis Hamilton to succeed at FerrariGETTY
Hamilton faces several key challenges in his transition to Ferrari, including adapting to a new language and team structure.
His teammate Charles Leclerc holds a significant advantage, having spent seven years with Ferrari.
“Leclerc is incredibly fast, but I have no doubt that if Ferrari have a race-winning car or a championship-winning car, then Lewis can win races and even the championship,” Brundle concluded.