Hamilton made headlines earlier this year when he announced that he would be leaving Mercedes at the end of the season to join Ferrari as Charles Leclerc’s teammate in 2025.
Alain Vasseur, Ferrari’s team principal, has been careful in discussing Hamilton out of respect for current driver Carlos Sainz. However, he recently shared some insights into why he was eager to bring Hamilton on board.
In an interview with the media, Vasseur explained that Hamilton’s influence would be felt long before he even got behind the wheel. He emphasized that a driver’s role is not just about lap times but also about contributing to the team’s overall direction and development.
According to Vasseur, Ferrari is still a relatively young team, both in terms of age and collective experience. Having someone like Hamilton, with his wealth of knowledge and experience, would be invaluable in shaping the team’s future.
Vasseur highlighted the importance of involving drivers early in the development process and building a long-term vision for the team. He expressed confidence that Hamilton would bring significant value to Ferrari as they continue to make strides forward.
Another positive aspect for Vasseur was that news of Hamilton’s signing did not leak until the last minute. Unlike past instances where Ferrari struggled to keep information confidential, the announcement was a well-kept secret until the official reveal.
Vasseur has been proactive in addressing leaks within the team, aiming to keep sensitive information private. He noted that while there may have been gossip in the media, there were no significant leaks from Ferrari itself.
Vasseur sees Hamilton’s arrival as a significant step forward for Ferrari, both on and off the track. He believes that Hamilton’s influence will extend far beyond his performance on race day, shaping the team’s trajectory for years to come.
