Vasseur Backs Hamilton’s Ferrari move amid Ongoing doubts
Lewis Hamilton's move to Ferrari remains confident despite recent Mercedes struggles, with team boss Fred Vasseur dismissing performance concerns ahead of the Abu Dhabi finale.
Mercedes Star's Struggles Won't Derail Anticipated Prancing Horse Partnership
Formula 1 is witnessing a fascinating narrative as Lewis Hamilton navigates the twilight of his Mercedes era, with Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur firmly dismissing concerns about the seven-time world champion's recent performance struggles.
Hamilton's candid admission of feeling "not fast anymore" during the Qatar Grand Prix weekend sent ripples through the paddock, highlighting a challenging conclusion to his illustrious Mercedes tenure.
Despite finishing an underwhelming twelfth in Qatar—a race marred by a jump start, puncture, and pitlane speeding penalty—Vasseur remains supremely confident in Hamilton's capabilities.
The Ferrari team principal's perspective offers a compelling counterpoint to Hamilton's self-critical remarks.
Vasseur pointedly referenced Hamilton's remarkable Las Vegas Grand Prix performance, where the British driver charged from tenth to a podium position, demonstrating his enduring racing prowess.
Performance and perception
Hamilton's recent struggles with the Mercedes W15 have been stark, with teammate George Russell consistently extracting more pace from the challenging machinery.
The driver's own acknowledgment of his current performance limitations has only intensified speculation about his form heading into the Ferrari switch.
Vasseur, however, sees beyond the immediate challenges. "Not at all," he responded when questioned about Hamilton's speed concerns.
"Have a look at the 50 laps that he did in Vegas. Starting P10, finishing on the gearbox of Russell, I'm not worried at all."
An emotional farewell
The upcoming Abu Dhabi Grand Prix represents more than just a season finale—it symbolizes the emotional conclusion of Hamilton's transformative Mercedes partnership.
Team principal Toto Wolff reflected on their remarkable journey, emphasizing the extraordinary achievements that will define their decade-long collaboration.
"Nothing is going to take away 12 incredible years with eight constructors' and six drivers' championships,"
Wolff stated. The team's perspective remains focused on celebrating their collective success rather than dwelling on the current season's challenges.
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