As Lewis Hamilton gets prepared for his highly anticipated debut season with Scuderia Ferrari, team principal Fred Vasseur has praised the seven-time world champion.
Deeming Lewis Hamilton a “Perfect Fit” for Ferrari, the seven-time world champion is starting his journey in Red off on a high.
A New Chapter for Hamilton and Ferrari
Hamilton’s Ferrari switch sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 community. The move became one of the most significant in the sport’s history. Highly anticipated since its announcement, Hamilton remains in pursuit of an eighth world championship.
Vasseur, who previously worked with Hamilton during his GP2 days in 2006, has seen notable changes in the driver over the years. The team principal had nothing but praise for his recruit. Speaking on Hamilton’s integration into the team, Vasseur stated:
“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.”
The Ferrari SF-25 and Hamilton’s Adaptation
Hamilton has already taken to the Fiorano circuit to get his first real feel of Ferrari’s 2025 challenger, the SF-25. While he has previously driven Ferrari’s older models in private test sessions, this marked his first official outing in his new machine alongside teammate Charles Leclerc.
Ferrari has very clear objectives for the 2025 season. Wanting to close the gap to McLaren and claim the Constructors’ Championship. A championship they last saw in 2008.
However, Vasseur believes his team are in the prime spot to challenge McLaren and Red Bull for this elusive title in the upcoming season. With Hamilton’s expertise and talent playing key roles in this plan.
“Drivers are all part of the car’s development, and even if Lewis has only had limited running so far, his feedback will be invaluable. Last year, we finished just 14 points behind McLaren, which means small improvements could be the deciding factor. Even a few hundredths of a second per lap can shift the balance.”
Concerns Over Hamilton’s Form
The last few seasons of Formula 1 have been tough on Lewis Hamilton. Many questioned if Hamilton’s best years were behind him, referencing some lacklustre qualifying performances in 2024.
However, Vasseur remains confident in the abilities of Britt. Claiming Hamilton’s final race for Mercedes in Abu Dhabi as a testament to his racing ability.
The monumental race saw the now Ferrari driver storming through the field from the back to finish fourth, overtaking former teammate George Russell on the final lap.
“That drive in Abu Dhabi showed that Lewis still has the pace. I had no doubts before, and I certainly don’t now,”
Aiming for Glory in 2025
Ferrari are determined to reclaim their place at the top of the sport and Hamilton eager to add another chapter to his legacy, the 2025 season promises to be one of the most thrilling. With new driver line-ups and rookies galore, 2025 will be a year for the history books.
Regardless of whether Hamilton can capture an eighth world title, it is clear that He and Ferrari are ready to fight for it.
Feature Image Credit: Ferrari Media Centre
