McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has conceded the F1 fan in him was “excited” to see Lewis Hamilton join Ferrari.
However, the Italian has pledged the constructors’ champions will attempt to make life a “little bit difficult” for the historic pairing when the new F1 season gets underway.
Stella, who held various roles for the Scuderia between 2000 and 2015, led McLaren to its first constructors’ title in 26 years last season, narrowly pipping Ferrari to the crown.
As was the case with the Woking-based team, the Maranello squad is suffering through a prolonged championship drought, with its last in 2008, something it hopes to break with the signing of Hamilton.
“Observing from a distance, I can say that I think the way this, at least for how it has been reported, was a great introduction of Lewis to Ferrari,” Stella told Sky Sports News.
“To be honest, as a fan of Formula 1, having been 15 years at Ferrari before, I felt excited myself to see something historic for Formula 1 – a seven-time world champion going to Ferrari, one of the most iconic teams.”
Making Ferrari and Hamilton’s life a ‘little bit difficult’
The early images and footage of Hamilton as a Ferrari driver were met with considerable fanfare, ensuring the official start of the season is heavily anticipated.
However, Stella was keen to highlight that what the partnership can achieve together on track is “what counts” in the end.
“I think Ferrari and Hamilton handled this very well,” the 53-year-old added.
“But ultimately, I’m sure they know very well that what counts is what’s happening on track.
“So after the initial excitement, I’m sure they will focus very much on making sure that the preparation is good.
“And on our side, we will try and make their life a little bit difficult.”
