Hamilton switch to Ferrari a chance for 'remembered forever' legacy - Steiner

Former Haas-F1 team principal Guenther Steiner believes Lewis Hamilton's switch to Ferrari is a chance for him to be “remembered forever”.

Hamilton will join the Italian squad in 2025 alongside Charles Leclerc, bringing his long-standing relationship with Mercedes to an end.

During his tenure with the Brackley-based squad, Hamilton won six world championships and 84 race wins, fashioning himself into the most successful driver in the sport's history.

Hamilton's decision came prior to the start of the current season, and after the mid-point of the campaign, Mercedes is in a front-running position while Ferrari is struggling for form.

However, Steiner asserted the 39-year-old can't get caught up thinking about the difference in pace between the two teams.

“I think Lewis is confident enough,” Steiner exclusively told RacingNews365. 

“He made the decision, he knows he can't change it. Focus on what is coming and not regretting [it]. You can't change it anyway.

“You need to focus on 'how can we get what we have got out of Mercedes at Ferrari and win there?'”

Steiner points to Hamilton legacy

Hamilton is targeting a fresh run in a title fight with a new organisation backing him, having not been in contention for a championship since 2021.

The 2026 regulation switch-up offers Ferrari a chance to start the new rule cycle on the front foot and deliver Hamilton a championship-contending car.

Despite already having unrivalled success in F1, Steiner asserted Hamilton will be “remembered forever” if he enjoys further triumph at Ferrari.

“Can you imagine if he starts to win with Ferrari, like he does now with Mercedes?” Steiner stated. 

“What a hero he will be to the world. I mean, he's already a legend without a doubt, but if he takes Ferrari to a world championship, and I think that is his dream and reason to go there, he will be remembered forever.

“So obviously, he will be thinking ‘what if' but he's not lacking confidence. After seven times being a world champion, I think he is in a good space.”