Formula 1 has officially entered a new era, and Ferrari is at the center of it. With seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton making his highly anticipated switch to the Scuderia, the dynamic between him and Charles Leclerc has become one of the most discussed topics in motorsport. Their first official appearance as teammates sent shockwaves through the F1 world, drawing reactions from fans, analysts, and even unexpected figures from outside the sport—one of whom is Mikaela Shiffrin, the legendary alpine ski racer and girlfriend of Leclerc.
Shiffrin’s Take on the Ferrari Partnership
While Shiffrin has mostly remained focused on her own sport, her relationship with Leclerc has naturally drawn her into the F1 conversation. As Hamilton and Leclerc stood side by side in Ferrari colors for the first time, Shiffrin took to social media to acknowledge the moment. Though her response was measured, it left room for interpretation.
“A new chapter begins. Excited for what’s ahead! 🏎️💨,” she posted on X (formerly Twitter), along with a photo of Leclerc and Hamilton together in their Ferrari suits.
While her comment may seem diplomatic, speculation quickly arose about the underlying dynamics of this new partnership. Leclerc has long been Ferrari’s golden boy, while Hamilton’s arrival signals a potential power shift within the team. Would Leclerc maintain his number-one status, or would Hamilton’s experience and pedigree push him into the dominant role? Shiffrin’s reaction was taken by many as a subtle show of support for her partner while cautiously welcoming the high-profile addition of Hamilton.
A Historic Partnership or a Recipe for Disaster?
Hamilton and Leclerc represent two contrasting figures in F1. Hamilton, the battle-hardened veteran, has conquered the sport with a mix of relentless talent, strategic brilliance, and an unshakable mental game. Leclerc, on the other hand, is the young prodigy who has spent years carrying Ferrari’s hopes on his shoulders, often with an underperforming car and questionable team strategies holding him back.
Their pairing is already being compared to some of the most legendary and controversial driver duos in Ferrari’s history—think Senna and Prost at McLaren, or Schumacher and Barrichello in the early 2000s. While Ferrari fans are thrilled at the prospect of having two generational talents in the same team, others fear a power struggle that could derail the team’s long-awaited return to dominance.
Social Media Reactions and the Divide
Following Shiffrin’s post, F1 fans erupted with mixed reactions. Some saw it as a wholesome moment of support, while others read into it more deeply, suggesting it hinted at underlying tensions.
“Shiffrin knows Leclerc is in for a tough season with Hamilton as his teammate. She’s bracing for the fight ahead,” one fan wrote.
Others took a more lighthearted approach: “Can’t wait for Shiffrin to start posting cryptic messages when Ferrari inevitably messes up their strategy again.”
What’s Next for Hamilton and Leclerc?
With the season fast approaching, the F1 world is eager to see how this partnership unfolds on the track. Will Hamilton and Leclerc be able to coexist peacefully and push Ferrari to its first championship since 2007? Or will egos, rivalries, and internal team politics lead to fireworks?
As for Shiffrin, while she may not be directly involved in F1, her unique perspective as an elite athlete—and as someone close to the Ferrari camp—ensures that her words and reactions will continue to be closely watched.
One thing is certain: Ferrari’s gamble on this superstar duo has made the 2025 season one of the most anticipated in recent history. And if early reactions are any indication, the drama is only just beginning.