Why is this being questioned? Frederic Vasseur responds to former Ferrari boss’s comments about Lewis.
Ferrari boss Frederic Vasseur has criticized Mattia Binotto for stating that he wouldn’t have signed Lewis Hamilton if he were still leading the Formula 1 team.
In 2025, Hamilton will make the highly anticipated switch to Ferrari under a multi-year agreement, joining F1’s most celebrated driver with the sport’s most successful team.
Vasseur, who has been acquainted with Hamilton since 2006, is confident that the Briton will aid Ferrari in “seeking out those final thousandths” as they work to end their title drought dating back to 2008.
Binotto, who was replaced by Vasseur in late 2022, suggested that his successor had erred in letting go of Carlos Sainz to bring on the seven-time F1 champion.
“I wouldn’t have chosen him,” Binotto mentioned to Corriere della Sera. “However, Hamilton made a wise decision by going, and I agree with his choice.”
“Ferrari was considering other drivers, but if Charles Leclerc is the talent they seek, I believe he’s the one who should be aimed towards achieving their goals.”
Lewis Hamilton will be joining Ferrari in 2025.
Vasseur encourages Binotto to concentrate on Sauber.
Vasseur has suggested that Binotto should concentrate on his current role of overseeing Sauber’s upcoming transition to Audi, rather than evaluating the decisions made by his former team.
When asked about his predecessor’s remark, Vasseur jokingly said in an interview with La Stampa, “I’m not sure Hamilton would have joined Sauber!”
“I’m glad that so many people are taking the time to discuss our decisions. My focus remains on our work, much like when I was at Sauber and chose not to comment on Ferrari.”
Vasseur is completely confident in Hamilton.
Hamilton’s challenging final season with Mercedes has led to questions for Vasseur about whether he regrets his decision to change drivers.
Nonetheless, Vasseur has reaffirmed his position that Hamilton’s struggles in 2024 were due to the circumstances surrounding his departure from Mercedes rather than a decline in his speed.
“He emphasized that he is in a complicated situation at the end of a long partnership, and there is also some frustration. He was aware it would not be an easy season.”
Hamilton excited about Ferrari journey
At the same time, Hamilton has conveyed his enthusiasm for his forthcoming endeavor with Ferrari, even though he admits facing a “steep learning curve” at the brand.
“I maintained a reserved demeanor in the paddock out of deep respect for my team,” Hamilton remarked after the race in Abu Dhabi last weekend.
I wanted to spare their feelings, so I steered clear of the sensitive areas.
Before long, I’ll begin collaborating with them. They did an outstanding job at the season’s end and Carlos excelled today. I truly hope to contribute as well.
