Fernando Alonso has questioned Lewis Hamilton’s claim that it was his “childhood dream” to drive for Ferrari.
Hamilton has agreed to move to the Italian marque when his contract at Mercedes expires at the end of the season.
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He spoke in glowing terms of Ferrari, but Alonso said he was surprised he’d not heard of Hamilton’s childhood ambitions before.
The Spaniard said: “It was not his childhood dream 12 months ago? Or two months ago, I guess. It was a different dream.”
Despite his cynicism, Alonso, who drove for Ferrari between 2010 and 2014, hopes the Briton can help the team back to the top of the podium, adding: “I hope he enjoys the experience. I think it’s a very special team. But it’s more special when you win…
“It’s few years already [since] they have a very fast car and they were fighting for big things.
“Maybe Lewis can bring that extra to fight for the championship because the car is there.”
Hamilton’s departure means there is a vacancy that needs to be filled at Mercedes. Two-time world champion Alonso has seemingly thrown his hat in the ring, although he claims his primary focus is to renew at Aston Martin when his deal runs out in 2024.
The 42-year-old said: “I am aware of my situation which is unique. There are only three world champions on the grid and I am the only one available for 2025, so I am in a good position.
“On a move to Mercedes, there has been nothing at all. I know the driver market has started earlier this year, but this will not affect me in terms of preparing for the season.
“If I want to keep racing beyond this year, the first and only talk at the beginning will be Aston Martin. I trust this project and that will be my first priority.
“But if we cannot reach an agreement I know that I am attractive to other teams. I will not stay in Formula One just to have fun. I am not that kind of person and not that kind of driver. Let’s see what the options are.”
