Breaking point in Hamilton's Mercedes relationship REVEALED

Johnny Herbert has pinpointed the moment he believes that Lewis Hamilton's relationship with Mercedes will begin to crack, ahead of his move to Ferrari.

The seven-time world champion last month revealed his intention to continue his career in red from the 2025 season, having failed to win a race in two seasons behind the wheel of his Mercedes.

After 12 seasons with the team, Hamilton has built a legacy that most can only dream of, but at one point before his move, both sides will begin to share less information with each other ahead of the move.

It’s natural for teams to hide things from departing drivers, so that they don’t hand their rivals a future advantage – but such is Hamilton’s strong relationship with his team, could it really break down?

READ MORE: Hamilton reveals thoughts on Horner investigation

Herbert: The focus will switch to George

F1 winner Jonny Herbert told Grosvenor Sport that he believes things could break down between the two parties this season.

“Mercedes can listen to what Lewis says, but there will be a point where Lewis isn’t going to say very much, and Mercedes won’t say much to him, and the focus will switch to George,” he said.

“Then it is down to George who will suddenly be in the situation of being the number one. The man they will be listening to and the expectations will be on his shoulders.

“That is why it is very important for Mercedes. It is not just about having a good season but actually having the right ingredients with your driver.”

After bringing some interesting innovations to Bahrain testing, Mercedes will hope that they have worked hard enough over the winter to remain Formula 1’s second best team - although Bahrain qualifying suggested otherwise.

If not, they could find themselves embroiled in an incredibly tight midfield fight in Lewis Hamilton’s swansong season with the team.

READ MORE: Wolff hints at driver to help deal with Hamilton 'curveball'

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