Why Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari shocked Helmut Marko. Helmut Marko admitted that he was surprised by Lewis Hamilton's move to Ferrari.

It has been just over five months since Lewis Hamilton’s move to Scuderia Ferrari was announced, yet questions about the English champion’s transfer continue. After Mercedes’ recent successes and Ferrari’s decline, he was asked if he had any regrets, while others believe it will be crucial. Among those surprised and who believe Lewis Hamilton will do well at Ferrari is Helmut Marko, who revealed he was “taken aback” by the announcement.

Recently, Helmut Marko revealed his “surprise” at Lewis Hamilton’s decision to switch from Mercedes to Ferrari. In the 2023 Formula 1 season, there were many rumors about his arrival at Ferrari, but at the end of August, the Englishman signed an extension to stay with Mercedes until 2025.

However, with the announcement of his move to the Scuderia, Lewis Hamilton chose to activate a contract break clause, allowing him to leave after the first year of the “new” contract.

Despite being Red Bull’s super-consultant, Helmut Marko admitted his surprise at the news. Furthermore, he believes the move is extremely positive for Formula 1. “There were rumors, but especially in winter, there are many rumors because there are no races,” Helmut Marko added, as reported by grandprix247.

“But when it was officially announced, I found out a day before the announcement, I was really surprised. But on the other hand, it’s a great thing for Formula 1. He is the most successful driver in our history, and together with Ferrari, the stock prices have risen. So, you can see the effect on marketing and the financial side. Usually, talks about drivers for the next year start around July or August, and the fact that Lewis Hamilton moved so early means everything has been anticipated. Most of the deals are concluded, but we’ll see, it will definitely be interesting.” – the Red Bull boss concluded.

Source: f1ingenerale