Carlos Sainz secured his second victory of 2024 in Mexico. Since then, the debate over Ferrari’s driver selection for 2025 has reignited. The Spaniard has demonstrably performed better during the current season than his successor. However, according to former F1 driver Damon Hill, Ferrari’s choice fell on Hamilton for one crucial reason.
Although Sainz and Hamilton have both won twice this year, the Spaniard has made it to the podium more often, seven times compared to Hamilton’s four podium finishes. The Ferrari driver is also 51 points ahead of the Brit in the drivers’ championship. Hamilton is at a disadvantage driving a slower car than Sainz’s SF-24, yet the debate over Ferrari’s choice for Hamilton is flaring up again.
According to former world champion Damon Hill, Hamilton has a significant advantage over Sainz: market value. “You can understand Ferrari’s position,” said Hill, speaking to the media in Brazil. “The name Lewis is huge. As we know, the stocks jumped when it was announced he was going to Ferrari. It’s a big story.”
Poor Luck for Sainz
Hill believes that Ferrari decided to go for Hamilton before the current season, regardless of Sainz’s strong performance. “It’s Formula 1 and unfortunately, these things are a factor in the sport. Bad luck for Sainz. He probably feels he has done just as well as Charles,” Hill concluded.
