Lewis Hamilton F1 News: Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur HITS BACK at critics over star signing

Lewis Hamilton talking to Frederic Vasseur — Photo: © IMAGO

Ferrari F1 boss HITS BACK at critics over Hamilton decision

By Kevin McKenna.

Thursday 1 August 2024 22:00

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has responded to those who have queried the team's decision to replace Carlos Sainz with Lewis Hamilton in 2025.

The seven-time Formula 1 champion will arrive at Maranello next year, whereas Sainz will depart for Williams.

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Despite Sainz himself previously admitting he understood the team's decision to bring Hamilton in, some have questioned whether the team are making an upgrade.

This rhetoric was louder when Hamilton struggled earlier in the campaign, though his recent resurgence has quietened dissenters.

Fred Vasseur is looking forward to teaming up with Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari

Hamilton win at this year's British GP was his first since 2021

Vasseur hails seven-time champion

Sainz on the other hand, was a regular feature on the podium, and had already celebrated a victory at the Australian Grand Prix in what was an impressive start to the season.

However, Hamilton has closed the gap to his Spanish counterpart in recent weeks - aided by wins at Silverstone and Spa - and demonstrated why the 39-year-old is widely regarded as one of the best drivers in the sport's history.

The former McLaren star will hope to finish with a flourish at Mercedes before embarking on his new challenge at Ferrari, as he aims to win a historic eighth drivers' title, something Vasseur believes he is capable of doing.

Hamilton currently sits ahead of George Russell in the drivers' standings

Speaking to Sky Italia after Hamilton's controversial victory in Belgium, the Ferrari team principal highlighted that despite some previously claiming the 105-time race winner was past his best, he still has plenty to offer.

“We certainly know the positive aspects of Lewis’ arrival, such as his great experience,” Vasseur said.

“Everyone since the beginning of the season has said that Russell is faster than him, but at the moment he is the one who has brought more points to Mercedes.

"So in terms of efficiency I think he is a good point of reference.”

Lewis Hamilton Ferrari Formula 1 Carlos Sainz Williams Fred Vasseur