Fred Vasseur insists he pushed hard for Lewis Hamilton after Charles Leclerc agreed to partner the Briton at Ferrari

Fred Vasseur highlighted that Charles Leclerc was happy to hear about Ferrari's negotiations with Lewis Hamilton.

Fred Vasseur insists he pushed hard for Lewis Hamilton after Charles Leclerc agreed to partner the Briton at Ferrari

Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, Fred Vasseur (in circle) (images via IMAGO)

Recently, Ferrari’s Fred Vasseur and Charles Leclerc discussed the team’s recent performance in 2024 so far. Vasseur outlined their strategies for improvement and shared exciting plans for 2025. He also detailed how Lewis Hamilton‘s signing took place after informing Leclerc about his new teammate.

Lewis Hamilton is a driver with exceptional skills, making it tough for rivals to compete with him. His remarkable performance level can also intimidate teammates, as they worry the team will favor him. However, when Fred Vasseur informed Charles Leclerc about the Briton’s potential signing, Leclerc embraced the challenge. This positive response from Monegasque encouraged Vasseur to push harder for Hamilton to join the team.

Charles has always agreed and this led me to push hard for it to happen.

Fred Vasseur told Festival dello Sport
YouTube video

Vasseur emphasized that for the team to grow, all members must share a common vision. He acknowledges that every driver works hard to win and seeks recognition, making friendships difficult during competition. However, he believes it’s crucial for drivers to align their efforts for the team’s success. The 56-year-old highlights the importance of having an intelligent driver in this dynamic. This encourages both competitiveness and collaboration, ultimately benefiting the entire team.

It is important to have a common vision, then it is clear that you cannot have drivers who are friends, but push in the same direction. It is important to have an intelligent driver.

Fred Vasseur stated.

Fred Vasseur claims a ‘good environment’ is crucial for success in F1

Fred Vasseur believes that Charles Leclerc’s personality is crucial for fostering a healthy relationship with his teammate, no matter who that may be. He points out that Lewis Hamilton, with his vast experience, would create a supportive environment that benefits both Leclerc and Ferrari. Vasseur emphasizes that a strong relationship with a teammate goes beyond just discussing car issues. Being around Hamilton would provide Leclerc with a positive atmosphere, ultimately helping him excel in his career.

Charles Leclerc and Fred Vasseur
Charles Leclerc and Fred Vasseur (Via: Imago)

I think it’s fundamental to have a good relationship, not just talk about understeer or whatever. But this is a passion and being balanced and having a good environment around you is crucial to have good results.

Fred Vasseur explained.

With just six races left before Lewis Hamilton’s move to the Italian team, he is preparing for his final stint with Mercedes. After over a decade with the Silver Arrows with incredible success, Hamilton aims to win a few more races before he departs. The Briton desires to conclude his tenure on a high note before he departs for his dream team.