Former Formula 1 chief Bernie Ecclestone believes Lewis Hamilton has "lost motivation" and doubts he will see out his Ferrari contract.
While some see the 40-year-old's move from Mercedes to Ferrari as a bold career decision, others suggest it is a strategic deal centred on marketing and financial incentives for both Ferrari and the seven-time world champion.
Ecclestone, however, doesn't think Hamilton will remain at Ferrari for long.
"He won't last that long," the 94-year-old stated. "Piero Ferrari, who has taken him there, still thinks they've done the right thing," Ecclestone added. "I hope they haven't just jumped in and end up wishing they hadn't."
Since losing his grip on the championship to Max Verstappen in 2021, Hamilton has struggled in F1's current 'ground effect' era, leading some to speculate that his age may be a factor.
Ecclestone, however, believes the issue is not age but longevity in the sport.
"It's not the age with drivers," he insisted. "It's how long they have 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 doubts Hamilton will find an easy fit at Ferrari, where he will partner Charles Leclerc.
"The team is happy with Charles Leclerc," he said. "Leclerc speaks their language, so they'll be looking after him.
"Even if Lewis does well, there will still be a lot of enemies, because he has suddenly arrived."
According to Ecclestone, Hamilton's personality and lifestyle choices often divide opinions in the paddock but perhaps also within teams.
"Lewis gets himself up front in a way where you can dislike him," he admitted.
"How a guy who has won a few world titles and has a few dollars in the bank can dress the way he dresses? I'm not a fan of that.
"He has a lot of talent as a driver. As much as people credit him with? No, but still enough to win races. I don't know why he does all this other nonsense. He needs to get out of the music business and whatever else."
