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 his statement that he wouldn’t have signed Lewis Hamilton if he were still in charge of the Formula 1 team.
In 2025, Hamilton is set to make the eagerly awaited move to Ferrari under a multi-year contract, uniting F1’s most celebrated driver with its most successful team.Since 2006, Vasseur has known Hamilton and is confident that the Briton will help Ferrari in “finding those last thousandths” as they strive to end their title drought, which dates back to 2008.
Binotto, who was succeeded by Vasseur in late 2022, implied that his replacement made a mistake by releasing Carlos Sainz to bring on the seven-time F1 champion.”I wouldn’t have chosen him,” Binotto told Corriere della Sera. “However, Hamilton made a wise decision by going, and I support his choice.”Ferrari had other drivers in mind, but if Charles Leclerc embodies the talent they’re looking for, I believe he’s the one who should be pursued to reach their objectives.
In 2025, Lewis Hamilton will become a part of Ferrari.Vasseur urges Binotto to focus on Sauber.Vasseur has advised Binotto to focus on his present responsibility of managing Sauber’s transition to Audi, rather than critiquing the decisions made by his former team.
When questioned about the comment made by his predecessor, Vasseur humorously remarked in an interview with La Stampa, “I’m not sure Hamilton would have joined Sauber!”I’m pleased that many people are engaging in discussions about our decisions.
My attention remains on our work, similar to my approach when I was at Sauber and refrained from commenting on Ferrari.Vasseur has full confidence in Hamilton.Hamilton’s difficult final season with Mercedes has prompted questions for Vasseur about whether he regrets his decision to switch drivers.
Nevertheless, Vasseur has maintained that Hamilton’s challenges in 2024 were a result of the circumstances surrounding his departure from Mercedes, rather than any decrease in his speed.He highlighted that he’s in a complex situation, concluding a long partnership, with some frustration involved. He knew it wouldn’t be an easy season.Hamilton thrilled about embarking on Ferrari adventure.
Meanwhile, Hamilton has expressed his eagerness for his upcoming venture with Ferrari, although he acknowledges encountering a “steep learning curve” at the company.”I kept a reserved demeanor in the paddock out of deep respect for my team,” remarked Hamilton after last weekend’s race in Abu Dhabi.
To avoid hurting their feelings, I avoided sensitive topics.Soon, I’ll start collaborating with them. They performed exceptionally well at the season’s end, and Carlos stood out today. I genuinely hope to make a valuable contribution as well.
