Ferrari unfazed by Hamilton's recent struggles, voices confidence ahead of his move

Red Bull Racing/Red Bull Content Pool

In the latest turn of events within Formula 1, Ferrari's team principal, Fred Vasseur, has expressed unwavering confidence in Lewis Hamilton's abilities despite the veteran racer's recent shortcomings on the track. Hamilton, a seven-time world champion and a towering figure in motorsport, has faced a challenging period with Mercedes, culminating in a series of underwhelming finishes. Yet, his impending switch to Ferrari has the team's top brass looking past these hurdles, focusing instead on Hamilton's proven track record and intrinsic talent.

Hamilton's recent performance in Qatar, where he finished 12th, and equally disappointing finishes in Brazil, where he came in 10th and 11th in the race and sprint respectively, have done little to dampen Vasseur's optimism. "Not at all," Vasseur responded when queried about any potential concerns regarding Hamilton's form as he gears up for his final race with Mercedes in Abu Dhabi. Highlighting Hamilton's drive in Las Vegas on Nov. 24 where he finished a mere breath away from winner George Russell, Vasseur remains confident in Hamilton's undiminished speed and racecraft.

It hasn't been an easy season for Hamilton, who has faced a formidable challenge from teammate Russell, trailing in qualifications and sprints. Yet, the Briton's resilience and conviction in his own ability remain unshaken. "I know I've still got it," Hamilton asserted, attributing the lack of pace not to a personal decline but to the car's limitations. With two grand prix wins this season, Hamilton signals he is far from done.

The recent race in Qatar saw Hamilton battling adversity, from penalties for a false start and speeding in the pit lane to a puncture, yet his determination never wavered. Even a moment of frustration, where he suggested retiring the car, couldn't deter his fighting spirit. Mercedes' team principal, Toto Wolff, too, stands firmly by Hamilton, attributing the season's difficulties to the current generation of cars rather than any falter in Hamilton's prowess. Wolff emphasizes, "He's a late braker, he carries a lot of speed on the entry to the corner and the car doesn't take it."

As Hamilton prepares for his final act with Mercedes in Abu Dhabi, the anticipation for his tenure with Ferrari grows. With the backing of both his current and future teams, the narrative shifts from his present challenges to a hopeful outlook for the next chapter in his illustrious career. "It's not how you fall, it's how you get back up," Hamilton remarked, already eyeing the opportunity to rebound with Ferrari and add more chapters to his legendary career in Formula 1.

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