F1 Rumour: Lewis Hamilton Ferrari Partnership Could Reach Staggering 400 Million Value

Rumors suggest a groundbreaking potential partnership between Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari.

After a ground-breaking development at the outset of the year, rumours have surfaced, as reported by Sportune.20minutes.fr, about ongoing discussions between Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari. These talks hint at a monumental partnership between the 7-time world champion and the Scuderia team that could reach a staggering value. 

Key Takeaways:

• Financial Impact and Market Reaction: Following the announcement of the discussions between Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari, Ferrari's stock price experienced a 6% surge, translating to a 4 billion euro increase in value. 
• Beyond Racing - A Future Contract: Despite Hamilton's current commitment to Mercedes, the negotiations with Ferrari reportedly encompass more than just a racing deal. 
• A Staggering Deal in the Making: The details of the negotiation reveal a massive financial commitment, with Hamilton's potential Ferrari contract involving 80 million euros for 2025, an option for 2026, and additional bonuses. 

The rumour mill has been in overdrive since Sportune.20minutes.fr reported on the potential union between Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari, suggesting a deal that extends far beyond the racetrack. 

Hamilton, who last year secured his place at Mercedes until 2024 with an option for 2025, against a backdrop of a 60 million euro salary, is rumoured to be looking towards a more expansive future. The speculated arrangement with Ferrari, facilitated through discussions with Exor's John Elkann, could herald a new era for the F1 champion, incorporating both his racing prowess and his wider business and philanthropic interests.

Hamilton's quest for a deal that transcends the traditional driver contract was initially met with resistance from Ferrari's initial offer according to reports. However, the evolving negotiations reflect a mutual interest in a broader collaboration, emphasising not just Hamilton's role on the track but also his impact off it. 

The envisioned deal, incorporating a significant investment in Hamilton's Mission 44 foundation and the establishment of a joint investment fund that could reach 250 million euros, will sit on top of a deal for two seasons of racing. This, according to the outlet, was originally 92 million euros for two seasons of racing, but Hamilton pushed for several contracts on top of his driving. 

Now, it's looking as though his driving is worth 80 million euros for 2025, inclusive of bonusses. 2026 will then be offered to the driver. 

Furthermore, the potential establishment of a joint investment fund with Exor, aimed at funnelling 250 million euros into Hamilton's future projects, exploding his total deal with Ferrari to that of around 400 million euros. 

This proposed partnership could not only redefine Hamilton's post-racing career but also set a new benchmark for how athletes engage with corporate entities, blending sporting excellence with entrepreneurial and philanthropic endeavours.