Vasseur D...Hamilton Amid Criticism Over Ferrari...

Vasseur D…Hamilton Amid Criticism Over Ferrari…Read More

Lewis Hamilton has faced criticism after announcing his move to Ferrari in 2025. Dutch racing driver Tom Coronel questioned the seven-time World Champion’s ability, suggesting Ferrari can only secure a title with Max Verstappen behind the wheel. However, Ferrari’s team principal, Fred Vasseur, has come to Hamilton’s defense, reaffirming that the British driver was always their first choice.

Hamilton, who is aiming for an eighth Formula 1 World Championship, will soon switch from Mercedes to Ferrari in a bid to claim more victories. His move will coincide with the new regulations set to reshape the sport in 2026. Despite his impressive record, Hamilton has faced challenges in recent years, enduring a winless streak that stretched over nearly 1,000 days.

Dutch racer Tom Coronel, known for his participation in the World Touring Car Championship and the Le Mans 24-hour race, stirred controversy by suggesting that Hamilton wasn’t Ferrari’s first pick. According to Coronel, Ferrari would have preferred to sign Max Verstappen, the reigning World Champion, instead. Coronel’s remarks cast doubt on Hamilton’s status within Ferrari and implied that Verstappen would have been the more effective choice to lead the team to victory.

However, Fred Vasseur has strongly dismissed these claims. In an interview with Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, the Ferrari boss expressed his unwavering belief in Hamilton’s capabilities. He highlighted Hamilton’s vast experience, strong relationship with Ferrari’s current star driver Charles Leclerc, and his composed demeanor as key factors that made him the ideal candidate for Ferrari’s future ambitions.

“I never had any doubts,” Vasseur stated. “I always believed it was a matter of motivation. As soon as Lewis gets a whiff of victory, he becomes unstoppable. I’m sure Ferrari has been on his mind for a long time. He will give everything he has.”

Vasseur’s comments underline Ferrari’s confidence in Hamilton, dismissing any notion that he was a secondary option to Verstappen. He emphasized that while Verstappen is under a long-term contract with Red Bull, Hamilton’s experience and compatibility with Ferrari’s team dynamics made him the obvious choice.

“Beyond Max’s long contract with Red Bull, Lewis is ideal for Ferrari,” Vasseur explained. “His experience, his relationship with Charles, and his calmness are exactly what we need to push Ferrari forward.”

Hamilton’s move to Ferrari is seen as a significant chapter in his illustrious career, with the British driver determined to add more titles to his already impressive collection. Despite the recent drought in wins, Vasseur remains confident that Hamilton will soon return to his winning ways.

Hamilton still has 10 race weekends left with Mercedes, including the upcoming Dutch Grand Prix. Mercedes has shown improved performance recently, winning three out of the last four races. As Hamilton prepares for his transition to Ferrari, the focus remains on finishing his time with Mercedes on a high note.

With Vasseur’s strong backing and Ferrari’s future plans, Hamilton’s upcoming stint with the Italian team could see him return to championship contention, despite doubts from some in the racing community.