F1 legend and former Ferrari driver Jackie Ickx believes Ferrari's decision to sign Lewis Hamilton was influenced heavily by his incredible marketing power.
The 40-year-old seven-time world champion's move to Ferrari has already made huge waves in the Formula 1 world and beyond, with his first photo at Maranello breaking records on Instagram. Posed in front of Enzo Ferrari's iconic house with an F40 supercar, the image has garnered an unprecedented 5.6 million 'likes' and counting.
"Emotions aside, how much is the seven-time world champion worth to Ferrari?" wondered La Repubblica. "Judging from his first photo published last Monday, a lot."
The Italian newspaper also detailed the estimated value per sponsor of Hamilton's follow-up debut image in Ferrari overalls, reinforcing the immense commercial impact of his arrival.
"It's certainly worth it for Ferrari already," noted respected F1 commentator Martin Brundle via Sky Deutschland.
However, Brundle questioned whether Hamilton, now 40, is "past his prime".
Jackie Ickx, an eight-time grand prix winner, acknowledged that Hamilton's marketing value likely played a significant role in Ferrari's decision.
"Carlos Sainz did very well at Ferrari," Ickx told El Mundo Deportivo. "But Ferrari were tempted to sign Hamilton probably for marketing reasons. And probably also because he wanted a new experience and to include Ferrari in his history.
"We'll see," the Belgian added. "But there's nothing to criticise Carlos for. He was successful, he won grands prix—but that's in the past now.
We have to remember that there are many important aspects to F1, and not just politics.
"There are also economics, marketing, but in the end it's all about winning. It's sad to see that has left Ferrari, but you have to move on and you can't constantly think about what could have been and why it didn't happen.
"No," said Ickx. "You have to be focused on what you have and do the best with that."
