Lewis Hamilton's upcoming shift to Ferrari in 2025 could present significant challenges, according to former Formula 1 driver Ralf Schumacher.
While Schumacher acknowledges the iconic nature of Hamilton's pairing with Ferrari—two "legendary names"—he believes the collaboration carries risks if results fail to meet expectations.
"But the deal also carries a big risk if it doesn't work out," Schumacher confirmed to Sport1.
Schumacher pinpointed potential issues, particularly Hamilton's ability to adapt to a driving style similar to that of his future teammate Charles Leclerc. "In my opinion, it would be a big problem if Lewis doesn't have a similar driving style to his new teammate Charles Leclerc," Schumacher said. "We've seen what that means at Mercedes, where George Russell was faster."
The 49-year-old former grand prix winner added that Hamilton's age could further complicate matters. "A young driver has more capacity and understands better how to adapt to a car," Schumacher explained. "And a young driver can work better with an engineer.
"Also, the cars are heavier and slower to drive than when he was successful. There is less mechanical grip. This means that you have to change your driving style, especially in the braking zones. And that is exactly where Lewis lost time to Russell."
Schumacher suggested that while Hamilton's experience might help him match Leclerc in races, the seven-time champion could face a deficit in qualifying. "I fear he will lose a few tenths in qualifying again," he said. "I also think Leclerc is better when it comes to car setup. He is also particularly good in terms of tyre management."
When comparing Hamilton to his brother Michael Schumacher, Ralf highlighted key differences. "The biggest difference, among many, is that Michael was able to work with the engineers to develop a car that was perfect for his driving style," he said. "Lewis has never been able to do that, if you listen carefully to what the Mercedes engineers say.
"That makes things even more difficult for Lewis, because Leclerc is the top dog. For Lewis, everything at Ferrari is new. Michael also came to Ferrari as the current world champion and was much younger. Neither of these is the case for Lewis."
Schumacher also noted Hamilton's recent comments in Qatar, where the 39-year-old admitted he is not as fast as he once was. "I think that came from the heart and was genuine," Schumacher said. "I admire his honesty."
Looking ahead, Schumacher speculated that Hamilton might even cut his Ferrari tenure short if the partnership proves unsuccessful. "The danger is there if everything goes badly," he said. "If Lewis realises that he is no longer living up to his own expectations, he will say so.
"And the Italian press will not have patience for more than six months if things aren't going well. He's not used to that kind of pressure from the outside.
"Even in Michael's time, they wanted to fire Jean Todt when success was taking too long. Michael prevented that, but I doubt that will happen with Lewis.
"Maybe he'll be lucky and the car will suit him. But I have my doubts," Schumacher concluded.
