Lewis Hamilton shocked the F1 world last February when he announced he was leaving Mercedes for Ferrari in 2025 as after 12 years with the Silver Arrows he wanted a fresh challenge.

The idea of F1’s most successful driver joining its most famous team has sent excitement through the roof. Fans are hoping Hamilton can bring Ferrari back to glory and win a record-breaking eighth title.

However, many figures in the paddock, including Flavio Briatore, Mattia Binotto, and Eddie Jordan, have questioned whether Hamilton made the right move, but one of the biggest sceptics is Bernie Ecclestone.

"He won’t last that long," the former F1 boss told The Telegraph, suggesting Hamilton won’t make it until the end of current his contract.

"Piero Ferrari, who has taken him there, still thinks they've done the right thing. I hope they have. I hope they haven't just jumped in and end up wishing they hadn’t."

Ecclestone doesn’t think Hamilton’s age is the problem—he thinks the Briton has lost motivation.

"It’s not about how old a driver is, it’s about how long they’ve been doing the same thing. I have thought with Lewis, 'He's getting tired. He has lost motivation.’

"If he had never won a world championship, it might be different, because then there would be an incentive to win one. But he has won seven."

Ecclestone also believes Hamilton might struggle with Ferrari’s team politics, especially with Charles Leclerc. "The team is happy with Charles Leclerc, his team-mate. Leclerc speaks their language, so they'll be looking after him," he said.

"Even if Lewis does well, there'll still be a lot of enemies, because he has suddenly arrived."

Hamilton’s last season with Mercedes in 2024 was a tough one, as he was beaten by his younger teammate George Russell. On the other hand, since arriving in Maranello a few weeks ago, he looked happier as he has been getting ready for the season ahead. Now, the big question is whether this move will lead to a success or failure.