Fred Vasseur reveals the first time Lewis Hamilton expressed his desire to race for Ferrari
Fred Vasseur shares the moment when Ferrari-bound Lewis Hamilton first expressed his interest in racing for the Italian team in F1.
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Fred Vasseur and Lewis Hamilton (via IMAGO)
Lewis Hamilton has long dreamt of driving for Ferrari, just like many other drivers. He has often wondered what it would feel like to sit in that iconic red cockpit. Earlier this year, news broke that his dream would become a reality, as he is set to join the Maranello team in 2025. Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur revealed that Hamilton has had Ferrari in his mind since 2004.
Before joining Ferrari, Fred Vasseur managed multiple teams and drivers, including ASM, which he founded in 1996 with Renault’s support. By 2003, ASM had entered the F3 Euro Series, and by 2004, they had already become a dominant team. He played an active role in nurturing young talents, such as Lewis Hamilton, who raced for ASM that year.
Although Hamilton was tied to McLaren-Mercedes, Vasseur noted that he had already voiced his dream of driving for Ferrari someday. They discussed this ambition years ago, and now, the 56-year-old sees his arrival at Ferrari as the fulfillment of that long-held dream.
I remember that in 2004, we were together [in the Euro Series of F3], at that time, he was linked to McLaren-Mercedes, but he already had in mind that, sooner or later, he would go to Ferrari. We talked about it a long time ago.
Fred Vasseur told La Gazzetta dello sport
Fred Vasseur noted that while Lewis Hamilton has always dreamed of driving for Ferrari, he needed confidence in the team’s performance before making the switch. After winning six championships with Mercedes, Hamilton faced a tough decision, especially as he nears retirement. He likely doesn’t want to miss the chance to race for the legendary Maranello team. Vasseur believes Ferrari can develop a race-winning car, which is their ultimate goal for the 2025 season.
He always had this desire in mind, but obviously he is a driver who wants guarantees in terms of performance. If he chose to join Ferrari, it confirms to me that we will be able to have the right car. That’s the ultimate goal.
Fred Vasseur explained.
Fred Vasseur asserts Ferrari on ‘right track’ with Lewis Hamilton’s arrival
Vasseur explains that Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari isn’t just for fun or relaxation. He believes Hamilton is serious about competing and winning with Ferrari. The past two years were the toughest of the Britons career, as he didn’t manage to win a single race. However, he finally broke that streak with a victory at the 2024 British GP.
The 56-year-old feels optimistic about Ferrari’s progress, noting that their performance is steadily improving. Still admits they need to step up their game to compete at the front . To achieve this, Vasseur highlights that Ferrari is putting a lot of effort and resources into their next car project.
A driver like Lewis doesn’t come to us for a vacation, and from my side, I think we are on the right track in terms of performance. We need a step forward, and I can say that we are devoting a lot of resources to our next project.
Fred Vasseur stated.
The 2024 season has just six races left before Hamilton says goodbye to the Silver Arrows and heads to Maranello. The tifosi are thrilled to welcome the British driver to their home team. Meanwhile, Mercedes fans are understandably disappointed, as their seven-time world champion will depart after a decade with the team.
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Gaurang Kadam
(535 Articles Published)