Jenson Button: Lewis’ decision deserves respect

2009 world champion Jenson Button called Lewis Hamilton’s decision to sign a contract with Ferrari courageous. At the same time, Jenson wonders why it was necessary to announce the transfer a year in advance, because Lewis still has one season left to play for Mercedes and the fact of leaving could affect the atmosphere in the team.

Jenson Button: “Lewis has decided to take a bold step, and this deserves a lot of respect, because he is not just moving to another team, he is moving to Ferrari. Lewis will have to play in a team that speaks Italian, and he does not know this language, while Charles Leclerc knows it very well, and this is very important.

I think in our childhood, when we all saw a red Ferrari, we dreamed of playing for this team. I had no such opportunity, although when I was very close I almost had the contract in my hands. For Lewis, this decision means a lot, and I hope everything will turn out well for him, because he will end his career in a team he has not played for before. It’s complicated.

I’m looking forward to seeing Lewis. I think he has a lot of confidence at the moment and is riding better than ever. If he can continue this form at Ferrari, it will be a great battle between him and Charles. I can’t wait to see Lewis in Ferrari.

However, it is strange that the announcement of the transition was made so early. It will take another year before Lewis ends up at Ferrari, but what impact will this news have on the atmosphere at Mercedes?

It won’t be easy for them. What will the team hide from Lewis? It is clear that he knows all the details of this team very well, but when it comes to the smallest details, will Mercedes keep them hidden from Lewis? Maybe.

As for George Russell, he will start thinking about a new partner. Will it be one of his old kart rivals like Alex Albon, or will it be Fernando Alonso, the driver who never backs down? Fernando always fights for the first places in the best teams, so who knows where this will lead.”