F1 Rumor: Lewis Hamilton Makes Surprising Move To Purchase Iconic Team

Lewis Hamilton has been connected to a significant crossover into MotoGP by expressing interest in acquiring the esteemed Gresini Racing Team, according to a report from The Race.

The British driver's fascination with motorcycles isn't new. The racing icon has often shared his love for two-wheelers, reflecting on his early desires to race them instead of cars. Back in 2019, he had the opportunity to swap places with Valentino Rossi as part of a PR appearance with their shared sponsor Monster. Speaking to the media at the time, Hamilton commented, as quoted in the same report from The Race:

"I have always loved bikes. When I was younger I wanted to race bikes, not cars but my dad wouldn't let me - he said they were too dangerous!

"He got me into four wheels rather than two. It was the right choice because if I was racing during the time Vale was there, I wouldn't have been so successful.

"Since I have been in Formula 1, I have a superbike and I like to do some track days. It is fascinating. It gives a different perspective."

The target of his interest, Gresini Racing, holds a venerable legacy in MotoGP, boasting talents like Enea Bastianini and the legendary Marco Simoncelli among its ranks through the years. Following the founder Fausto Gresini's passing in 2021, his widow Nadia Padovani took the reins, leading the team into a new chapter with Ducati machinery.

The discussions about Hamilton's potential acquisition surged during the Dutch TT weekend at Assen. It was reported that several insiders confirmed Hamilton's strong interest. One of the seven-time F1 champion's associates also attended pivotal meetings with Gresini. This move could deeply intertwine F1 and MotoGP, especially with MotoGP's ongoing acquisition by Liberty Media, current owners of F1. Strategically, Hamilton's entry into MotoGP team ownership is seen as a smart move. With minimal financial risk, backed by robust sponsorships from brands like Petronas who are already involved in MotoGP, Hamilton can leverage immense promotional opportunities.

Previously, the 7-time champion ventured into team ownership with the X44 team in the Extreme E series and contributed to the NFL's Denver Broncos ownership group.

The Mercedes driver has previously spoken about Formula One and MotoGP having a closer relationship. He commented when it was confirmed that Liberty Media were purchasing the racing series, as quoted by Planet F1:

"I haven't thought about it much, but of course I have read the headlines.

"I think Liberty Media has done a great job with Formula 1. The value has clearly increased since 2017, so I think they can do a great job with MotoGP as well.

"It's exciting because I love MotoGP. It would be epic if we could organize a race on the same weekend," he mused. "Maybe I could race in MotoGP and Formula 1 in the same weekend! That would be really cool, but of course, that's impossible."