JUST IN : Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari Dream Finally Comes True: Vasseur Says Signing Was “Easy
Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari Dream Finally Comes True: Vasseur Says Signing Was “Easy
Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur has revealed that signing Lewis Hamilton from Mercedes was simpler than expected, thanks to Hamilton’s longstanding admiration for Ferrari. The British F1 star, who has often spoken about his childhood dream of racing for the Italian team, will soon swap Mercedes silver for Ferrari red, joining Charles Leclerc as his new teammate.
A Surprising Move Despite Hamilton’s Mercedes Contract
Hamilton stunned fans and the F1 community when he announced his departure from Mercedes at the end of the season to join Ferrari, just months after signing a two-year deal with Mercedes. His decision surprised many who believed the 39-year-old would end his career with the team where he achieved most of his success. Instead, he signed a multi-year contract with Ferrari, marking what could be his final chapter in the sport.
Vasseur: “The Stars Aligned” for Hamilton and Ferrari
Fred Vasseur, Ferrari’s team principal, expressed that the timing was perfect for both parties. “It wasn’t difficult actually,” Vasseur told Gazzetta dello Sport. “Ferrari has always been in his thoughts, and now the stars have aligned. But he comes to win, not on vacation. And I’m convinced that we have everything to try.”
Hamilton, who has a long-standing friendship with Vasseur dating back to his early racing days, cited his excitement over the move and respect for Vasseur’s leadership.
Swift Negotiations Sealed the Deal
Reports indicated that the contract negotiations were exceptionally quick, with one lawyer calling it the fastest deal they had seen in F1. Ferrari was reportedly thrilled from the first discussions and eager to bring Hamilton on board. Hamilton himself acknowledged the allure of Ferrari and its rich racing legacy, noting his awe whenever he witnessed the “sea of red” Ferrari fans, especially at the Italian Grand Prix.
A Childhood Dream Fulfilled
Reflecting on his decision, Hamilton revealed his long-time fascination with Ferrari, recalling how he admired Michael Schumacher as a child and imagined himself behind the wheel of a Ferrari. “Of course, I think for every driver growing up, watching the history, watching Michael Schumacher in his prime… you see the driver in the red cockpit and you wonder what it would be like,” Hamilton said.
The chance to drive for Ferrari represents the realization of a childhood dream, made even more special by his close relationship with Vasseur. “I’ve got a great relationship with Fred,” he said. “We had amazing success in Formula 3 and GP2, and that’s where the foundation of our relationship started.”
Hamilton credited Vasseur’s leadership at Ferrari as a major reason for his move, sharing his excitement for the future and the challenge ahead.
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