On February 1st of this year, there was a surprising announcement in the world of Formula 1. Ferrari and Hamilton revealed an innovative agreement for 2025. The renowned Italian team will welcome Sir Lewis as their newest member, partnering with Charles Leclerc and replacing Carlos Sainz starting in 2025.
Reliable reports suggest that the 39-year-old British driver could potentially earn a staggering amount of up to $500 million for his services and achievements during his tenure in Maranello.
In a letter addressed to Exor shareholders, obtained by FormulaPassion, the 48-year-old Elkann expressed his vision for the year 2024. He emphasized the importance of aligning ownership, governance, and leadership to build successful companies. Elkann praised the Scuderia Ferrari for their progress in the new F1 season, which has already seen them secure several podium finishes. He also mentioned Lewis Hamilton, highlighting the constant learning and room for improvement that exist in the world of racing, as well as in life in general.
Elkann, who is rumored to be the mastermind behind the irresistible offer that led Hamilton to leave his long and illustrious association with Mercedes, further praised Ferrari’s triumphant return to the top of the sports car series. Ferrari’s efforts in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) Hypercar secured victory at the Le Mans endurance race in 2024 in their debut season, after a fifty-year absence from the prestigious event. Elkann commended the efforts of the mechanics, engineers, and drivers, as well as the unwavering commitment of the team and their loyal fans. He emphasized that Ferrari’s ability to combine performance and passion sets them apart from any other.
John Elkann acts as CEO of Exor N.V., a Dutch holding company incorporated in the Netherlands and controlled by the Agnelli family through the private company Giovanni Agnelli B.V. In 2022, Exor N.V. achieved revenues exceeding $41 billion, ranking as the 317th largest group in the world by revenue, according to the 2022 Fortune Global 500 list.