Ferrari chief admits Hamilton health doubts as update…read more
Lewis Hamilton has received strong support from his future Ferrari team principal, Fred Vasseur, after a challenging 2024 season. Hamilton, who is set to join Ferrari for the 2025 Formula 1 season, is looking to make one final push for an unprecedented eighth world championship title. Having spent 12 successful years at Mercedes, securing six of his seven titles and 84 of his 105 career Grand Prix victories, Hamilton faced a difficult end to his time with the team. In 2024, he could only manage a seventh-place finish in the drivers’ championship, finishing behind his younger teammate George Russell, who outperformed Hamilton in both race results and qualifying.
Despite these struggles, Vasseur, who will become Hamilton’s new team principal at Ferrari, has expressed confidence in the seven-time world champion’s abilities. Vasseur, who worked with Hamilton during his GP2 days, downplayed concerns about Hamilton’s performance decline, particularly after a lackluster season with Mercedes. In a recent interview with Sky Sports, Vasseur addressed the question of Hamilton’s performance, especially after his impressive overtaking of Russell on the final lap of the season, stating, “Ask the question to Russell on Sunday,” referring to Hamilton’s determination at the season’s close. He added that Hamilton’s performance in qualifying was not a reflection of his true skill, mentioning his strong showings in the final races of 2024, including events in Las Vegas and Abu Dhabi.
Vasseur also acknowledged the mental challenges Hamilton faced during the season, particularly late in the year, but reassured that these concerns would not affect his future performance. “He was not very well in his mind, but he was clear in Brazil about this,” Vasseur said, referring to Hamilton’s acknowledgment of his mental struggles. However, he also highlighted Hamilton’s strong finish to the season, reinforcing that he is not concerned about any long-term effects.
As Hamilton prepares for his move to Ferrari, questions remain about how he will match the pace of teammate Charles Leclerc, especially if Ferrari can provide a car capable of competing for the championship. However, Vasseur’s vote of confidence and Hamilton’s determination indicate that the 2025 season will be crucial for the legendary driver’s career. With Ferrari’s support, Hamilton will aim to challenge for that elusive eighth title and further solidify his place in Formula 1 history.
