Lewis Hamilton linked with shock move amid doubts over his Mercedes future

Lewis Hamilton has been linked with a move away from Mercedes after yet another disappointing start to the season.

In 2022, Hamilton and Mercedes were way off the top as the seven-time world champion failed to win a race in an F1 season for the first time in 15 years.

Heading into the 2023 campaign, there was renewed optimism that Mercedes have been able to close the gap between themselves and the likes of Red Bull and Ferrari.

However, as last weekend’s Bahrain Grand Prix showed, they are still a long way off. Plus the fact that Aston Martin have suddenly found the pace to challenge.

Hamilton, whose contract is due to expire at the end of the 2023 season has now been linked with a move to Ferrari.

According to Sky Sports F1 host Simon Lazenby, a move cannot be ruled out.

He said to Express Sport: “I wouldn't rule it out.

“I think if anyone deserves an opportunity to be in the best possible car to be racing Max Verstappen it's Lewis Hamilton. He's not going to join Red Bull while Max is there. It's the desire of all drivers to drive for Ferrari.

“In the past, Lewis has been quoted as saying he would like to drive for Ferrari. If Ferrari moves comfortably ahead of Mercedes I wouldn't rule it out.”

Just last year, Hamilton was quoted saying it would be nice to drive for the Italian team.

He told Corriere della Sera: “Of course, it would be nice to race for Ferrari during my career, but things happen because of a reason.”

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Hamilton did quickly point out that he is loyal to Mercedes, he added: “Mercedes is my family. I will always be a Mercedes driver, just like Stirling Moss.”

Fans were quick to react to the prospect of Hamilton driving for Ferrari.

One said: “With that being said watching Hamilton win a few races in a Ferrari would be *chefs kiss*.”

Another tweeted: “Don’t think it would be good for Ferrari, stupid move to leave Sainz for Hamilton considering Hamilton's age.”

A third added: “If Hamilton went to Ferrari that would be his last season before he retires.”

Will Hamilton leave Mercedes come the end of the season? Only time will tell.