Hamilton: No reason to think about past Ferrari F1 interest

Current F1 CEO and president Stefano Domenicali revealed earlier this week that he wanted to sign Hamilton during his tenure as Ferrari team principal between 2008 and 2014. 

But having failed to get a deal over the line, Domenicali said Hamilton not joining Ferrari during his F1 career will be remembered as a “sliding doors” moment for the sport. 

“That is true and we discussed that, but I think the answer that Lewis was able to give was the right one,” Domenicali told Sky Sports. 

“There are moments in life where there is a movie that for me sometimes is very important to remember: Sliding Doors. There are moments where, if you don't get into an elevator, you stay on the floor.

“That was the situation that Lewis lived in that specific time of his life, but I think that he cannot blame his choice, at least because he did an incredible career.”

Speaking to Sky Italia shortly after taking his 100th win at the Russian Grand Prix, Hamilton admitted it was his “dream” to drive for Ferrari and said he was not exactly sure why a move never materialised.

But ahead of this weekend’s Turkish Grand Prix, the seven-time world champion insisted Ferrari was always a “short-lived” option because he favoured the “loyalty” that comes with being a Mercedes driver. 

“I have no reason to think about it,” Hamilton said. “It was a part of each end of a term, you have to do your due diligence and see what options you have.  

“I’m really proud of where I am and what I’ve done with Mercedes. I always thought that - and I think I’ve said it before - the idea of going to Ferrari was short-lived in the sense that when you're with Mercedes you’re with a family for life. 

“If you look at all the historic drivers who have driven for Mercedes that have been with them until they’re in their 90s. And that’s something you don’t see in any other team and with any other brand. 

“That’s something I’m very, very proud of. Plus we’ve achieved more than anybody and that’s down to great teamwork, that’s down to loyalty, and so I don’t take that for granted.”