BREAKING: Ferrari issue response to concerning Lewis Hamilton q..

“Ferrari Boss Dismisses Concerns Over Lewis Hamilton’s Qualifying Struggles Ahead of 2024 Season”

Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur has downplayed concerns over Lewis Hamilton’s recent qualifying struggles, expressing confidence as the seven-time Formula 1 World Champion prepares to join Ferrari. Hamilton’s move to the Italian team comes after 12 years with Mercedes, during which he became one of the sport’s most dominant drivers. However, his final season with Mercedes saw a noticeable dip in his single-lap performance, particularly in qualifying, where teammate George Russell outperformed him, winning 19 of the 24 qualifying battles.

Hamilton openly expressed frustration with his performance during the Qatar Grand Prix weekend, where he stated, “I’m just slow, same every weekend.” When asked whether his struggles were due to personal issues, Hamilton responded with uncertainty, saying, “Who knows? I’m definitely not fast anymore.”

For many F1 pundits, qualifying performance can be the first indication of a driver losing their competitive edge. While a driver may still perform well in races, starting from lower grid positions can ultimately compromise their race results. Hamilton’s comments and his qualifying difficulties have fueled speculation that he may be past his prime.

Despite these concerns, Vasseur remains untroubled by Hamilton’s recent form. Speaking at a Ferrari Christmas event, he emphasized the importance of race day performance, where points are earned. “First of all, we are well placed to know that it’s on Sunday that you are scoring points,” Vasseur told Sky Sports News. He pointed out that Ferrari had its own challenges in 2023, excelling in qualifying but struggling in races, particularly in tire management. According to Vasseur, Ferrari is focused on addressing these issues for 2024.

He praised the improvements made by Ferrari’s current star driver, Charles Leclerc, in terms of race and tire management, noting that Ferrari must continue building on that momentum for the upcoming season. When asked whether Hamilton’s qualifying struggles were a concern, Vasseur firmly dismissed the notion, maintaining that Hamilton’s performances on race day are what truly matter.

Vasseur also referenced Hamilton’s performance at the Las Vegas Grand Prix as proof that the British driver is still a force to be reckoned with. Despite a challenging qualifying session that saw Hamilton start from 10th on the grid, he managed to fight his way through the field to finish second, right behind Russell. “Starting P10, finishing on the gearbox of Russell, I’m not worried at all,” Vasseur said.

Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is seen as a major coup for the Scuderia, with hopes high that he can help elevate the team to championship contention. However, not everyone shares Vasseur’s optimism. Former F1 team boss Eddie Jordan, speaking on the Formula For Success podcast, expressed concerns about Hamilton’s recent comments. Jordan, who is currently battling cancer, argued that Hamilton’s self-doubt could signal the beginning of his decline.

“If you don’t believe 100 percent, you’re f**ked,” Jordan said. “Belief, 99.9 percent, means there’s that tiny, little thing in your head that knocks your confidence. What I heard from Lewis, ‘I’m not fast enough anymore,’ those were the words. Honestly, if I were Ferrari, I would say close the book, find the way out. That’s it.”

While Vasseur remains confident in Hamilton’s ability to deliver for Ferrari, the debate surrounding the Brit’s form continues as he prepares for the next chapter of his storied career.