Ferrari’s team principal, Frederic Vasseur, has disclosed that his connection with Lewis Hamilton remains “close,” even as speculation swirls around the Mercedes driver’s upcoming decisions.
Italian journalist Leo Turrini reported that Ferrari’s president, John Elkann, personally engaged with Hamilton regarding a potential transition to the Scuderia.
With Lewis Hamilton’s contract with Mercedes set to conclude at the conclusion of the F1 2023 season, his future has emerged as a prominent discussion point throughout this ongoing campaign.
Despite Ferrari’s efforts, it seems their attempts are in vain, as indications point towards Hamilton’s impending renewal with Mercedes.
Addressing the ongoing speculation regarding Hamilton’s potential move to Ferrari, Vasseur shared insights in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“I talk to him at every grand prix, he raced for me twenty years ago and we’re still close,” Vasseur said.
Vasseur continued by sharing his experience with the seven-time world champion, he stated: “I helped him when he went to McLaren at the start of his F1 career and we talk occasionally.
He continued: “Clearly if they see us together in the paddock a fuss comes out. I don’t want to compare him to our drivers, it wouldn’t make sense.
“But the contribution of a top driver isn’t just driving, it’s also technical, strategy, help in hiring an engineer.
“And in this case, if you have Hamilton, [Max] Verstappen but also [Charles] Leclerc, it’s easier. Anyone who works in F1 is passionate about racing, they like working with champions.”
