Ferrari address Hamilton concerns with ‘perfect fi…read more
Ferrari’s team principal, Frédéric Vasseur, has expressed strong confidence in Lewis Hamilton’s integration into the team, describing the seven-time World Champion as the “perfect fit” for the Italian squad. Hamilton, who concluded a highly successful 12-year tenure with Mercedes at the end of last season, is set to make his debut with Ferrari in the upcoming Formula 1 season.
At 40, Hamilton has already participated in several private tests with Ferrari, acclimating himself to the new environment and machinery. Reflecting on Hamilton’s performance in the final race of the previous season, Vasseur highlighted the driver’s enduring competitiveness:
> “He showed in Abu Dhabi, starting from the back and coming back to P4, overtaking Russell in the last lap, that the pace is there, and I had no doubt before,” Vasseur told media, including RacingNews365.
Vasseur and Hamilton share a history, having collaborated during Hamilton’s GP2 championship-winning campaign before his promotion to Formula 1. This prior working relationship has fostered mutual respect and understanding, which Vasseur believes will be advantageous for the team. He emphasized Hamilton’s growth over the years:
> “He’s not the same—he’s 20 years older than when we were together first! Everybody is changing, improving, developing. For sure, he’s much more mature, much more experienced, and he’s the perfect fit with the team today.”
Hamilton’s transition to Ferrari has been met with enthusiasm from both the team and its passionate fanbase, the Tifosi. During his initial runs at Ferrari’s Fiorano test track, hundreds of fans gathered to witness the historic moment. In a display of dedication, one fan even took it upon himself to remove a tree obstructing the view, climbing a 25-foot tree with an electric saw to ensure an unobstructed sightline of Hamilton on the track. The crowd erupted in cheers as the tree fell, symbolizing the lengths to which supporters will go to witness their new driver in action.
Hamilton’s enthusiasm for his new chapter with Ferrari is palpable. He has immersed himself in Italian culture, learning the language and indulging in local cuisine. Reflecting on his first experience driving the SF-25, Hamilton drew parallels to his early days in the sport:
> “I’m really conscious of the fact that there are only a handful of special first times in life—the first kiss, the first date, the first time of school, the first time in the job. I honestly thought I’d had all my firsts and nothing would be new again. Given I’ve raced for so long, even I’m surprised at just how much … —it felt so new.”
He further elaborated on the unique sensation of driving for Ferrari:
> “To feel the vibration of … . That’s what ultimately put the biggest smile … .”
The partnership between Hamilton and his new teammate, Charles Leclerc, is also a focal point for the team. Vasseur believes that their collaboration will foster a positive and competitive environment, essential for the team’s success:
> “As a team, if we want to perform, we need to have two drivers performing. We need to have two drivers in a kind of competition, a positive competition and a positive emulation. I’m sure that will be the case.”
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has not only rejuvenated his own aspirations but has also injected a renewed sense of vigor into the team. Ferrari’s leadership, including chairman John Elkann and CEO Benedetto Vigna, have created an environment focused on achieving success. Hamilton acknowledged the team’s comprehensive approach:
> “We have a great leader in Fred and John and Benedetto, so everyone has a really calm … . No one believes they are perfect, and everyone wants to elevate in … , and we are leaving no stone … .”
As the pre-season testing phase approaches, Hamilton’s confidence in Ferrari’s potential is evident. He believes that the team’s passion, combined with its technical prowess, positions them well for the challenges ahead:
> “The energy I am receiving from the … everyone, and everyone is putting that in … , but it’s also about belief. … winning with Ferrari, every single person … .”
The upcoming season holds significant promise, with Ferrari aiming to capitalize on the momentum built in the previous year. The combination of Hamilton’s experience and the team’s dedication sets the stage for a compelling championship pursuit. As the season opener in Melbourne on March 16 approaches, the anticipation among fans and the team continues to build, marking the beginning of a new and exciting chapter in Formula 1 history.
