As Lewis Hamilton ponders what will be a career-defining choice between Ferrari and Mercedes, one former Scuderia driver has warned the Brit to consider his legacy first.

After 13 years in the sport and with six world titles under his belt, it is little surprise that Hamilton is thinking about where his career could go next.

Ferrari themselves recently confirmed that Hamilton had met with new president John Elkann and are described as being 'flattered' by his interest in a move.

Former Ferrari driver Gerhard Berger told The Guardian he understands the attraction of the Scuderia.

"For Lewis, I could not recommend to any driver more than if you can at one time in your career take the chance to drive for Ferrari.

"It is an outstanding experience. Driving for Ferrari is very emotionally driven. Some are cold to it, some react very much toward it.

"Me, I was affected very much because I love Ferrari, I loved the Italian mentality, the brand and I think Lewis would. Most of the drivers love it but it has to be right on timing."

Hamilton is currently one World Championship behind Michael Schumacher's record and seven race wins behind the German's record of 91 - both of which he could surpass next season.

With that in mind, Berger has warned Hamilton against leaving a Mercedes team that have won six Drivers' titles and six Constructors' titles in a row.

Berger said: "I think he should go to Ferrari, but after he has beaten all the records.

"It would be too much to do it before because he has such a phenomenal team around him. You never leave a winning team, so perhaps it is not the right moment to do it now."