Ferrari boss makes ‘not politically correct’ statement on Lewis Hamilton’s…read more
In a recent interview, Ferrari’s team principal, Fred Vasseur, candidly discussed his priorities regarding team performance and diversity initiatives. Vasseur emphasized that while enhancing diversity is important, his foremost focus remains on achieving optimal performance for the team. He acknowledged that this stance might not align with prevailing politically correct views but maintained that building the best team is his primary objective.
This perspective comes at a time when Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time World Champion and the only Black driver in Formula 1 history, has been a vocal advocate for increased diversity within the sport. Hamilton’s efforts intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading him to establish the Hamilton Commission in 2020. This initiative aims to identify and dismantle barriers faced by Black individuals in UK motorsport, striving for a more inclusive environment.
Hamilton’s commitment to diversity has been evident throughout his career. He has frequently highlighted the underrepresentation of minority groups within Formula 1 and has actively worked towards creating opportunities for marginalized communities. His endeavors have not only brought attention to systemic issues within the sport but have also inspired other teams and organizations to reflect on their practices and implement changes.
In November 2024, all Formula 1 teams, including Ferrari, signed a Diversity and Inclusion charter, signaling a collective commitment to fostering a more inclusive environment within the sport. Despite this, Vasseur’s recent comments suggest a nuanced approach, balancing the pursuit of performance with the goals of diversity. He stated, “It’s not politically correct, but first is performance. I’m keen to go into the direction of diversity and so on, but I want to build up the best team.”
Hamilton’s recent move to Ferrari, announced in February 2024, adds another layer to this dynamic. His transition from Mercedes, where he spent over a decade, to Ferrari marks a significant chapter in his illustrious career. This move not only fulfills a childhood dream for Hamilton but also brings his advocacy for diversity into a new team environment. His presence at Ferrari is anticipated to influence the team’s culture and potentially accelerate its diversity initiatives.
The partnership between Hamilton and Vasseur is particularly noteworthy given their history. The two have known each other for over two decades, with Vasseur recalling moments from their early interactions. Reflecting on their relationship, Vasseur shared, “I show Vasseur, who hails from France, a photo I found online: it’s him and Hamilton some 20 years ago, celebrating a win. He shows … ‘We can’t be sentimental.'”
Hamilton’s decision to join Ferrari was influenced by multiple factors, including the opportunity to work with Vasseur and the challenge of bringing championship success to the team. He expressed confidence in Ferrari’s commitment to inclusion, stating, “I’m not going to change … .”
The move has sparked discussions about how Hamilton’s advocacy will align with Ferrari’s existing culture and priorities. While Vasseur emphasizes performance, Hamilton’s influence could serve as a catalyst for deeper integration of diversity initiatives within the team. This collaboration presents an opportunity for Ferrari to balance its storied legacy of racing excellence with a progressive approach to inclusivity.
As the 2025 season approaches, the dynamics between Hamilton and Vasseur will be closely observed. Their partnership embodies a blend of experience, ambition, and a shared history, all while navigating the complexities of performance and diversity in a highly competitive sport. The outcome of this collaboration could set a precedent for how Formula 1 teams approach the integration of competitive success with meaningful cultural change.
Fred Vasseur’s candid remarks highlight the inherent tension between maintaining peak performance and advancing diversity within a Formula 1 team. Lewis Hamilton’s arrival at Ferrari introduces a unique dynamic, given his unwavering commitment to inclusivity. The interplay between these two perspectives will be pivotal in shaping Ferrari’s future, both on the track and within the broader cultural landscape of motorsport.
