Norbert Haug, the former head of Mercedes motorsport, believes Lewis Hamilton is poised to finally secure his eighth F1 world championship with Ferrari. Haug remains convinced Hamilton’s chances were unjustly taken during the controversial events in Abu Dhabi 2021.
The uproar surrounding that infamous race continues to echo throughout F1 circles. A contentious safety car decision in the final moments led to Max Verstappen snatching the title, leaving fans and analysts debating the fairness of it all.
Haug, instrumental in reviving Mercedes’ motorsport prestige in the late 1990s, now views Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari as a potential corrective to that incident. It’s seen as an opportunity for Hamilton to reinforce his legacy.
Having played a pivotal role in nurturing Hamilton from a gifted 14-year-old to a seven-time F1 champion under Mercedes, Haug shares a deep connection with the driver. Yet, Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari after 2024 evokes mixed emotions for the German.
Talking to Sky Germany, Haug expressed his sentiments, “I’m genuinely saddened by it. Honestly, I never imagined Lewis making another switch.”
Recollecting his long-standing bond with Hamilton, he adds, “Knowing someone since their teenage years, working alongside them through the highs and lows, is truly special. Time may pass, but the memories remain fresh.”
### The Specter of Abu Dhabi 2021
The events of 2021, where Hamilton lost out in a last-lap showdown due to a controversial safety car ruling, remain a painful topic. The decision by race director Michael Masi to let only certain lapped cars unlap themselves sparked widespread outrage. For Haug, the outcome was unequivocal.
Reflecting on the incident, Haug remarked, “The title loss in 2021 was nothing short of theft—stemming from a flawed safety car decision. The aftermath impacted Mercedes significantly.”
He further elaborates that this marked a turning point, a “demolition” of Mercedes’ previous dominance. “We faced numerous setbacks thereafter, with success coming sporadically, often in cooler conditions,” he explained.
### Ferrari’s Chance at Redemption
Now partnering with Ferrari at 40, Hamilton is driven and ready to push boundaries, and Haug fully backs his determination. “Anyone thinking he’ll ease off at 40 underestimates him. He’s all set to give it everything, and if Ferrari provides the right car, why can’t he clinch that eighth title?”
Haug envisions a synergy between Hamilton’s indefatigable spirit and Ferrari’s legendary prowess yielding the long-coveted crown that slipped away in 2021.
Reflecting on Mercedes’ prospects, Haug admits the team seems to have hit a plateau since their glory days. “We’re performing at the same level as our last race,” he noted, hinting at a lack of progress.
But will Ferrari harness Hamilton’s ambition to make that historic win happen? For Haug, it’s not just a possibility but a rightful achievement Hamilton is ready to claim.
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