Sebastian Vettel backs Hamilton’s Ferrari title challenge in 2025 F1 season

Dominika Jordan
Mar 25, 2025, 1:14 AM ET

Sebastian Vettel, the distinguished four-time world champion, has expressed his support for his former rival, Lewis Hamilton, as the Briton contends for the drivers' championship with Ferrari this season. Speaking in an interview with BBC Sounds , recorded after the 2025 season opener but prior to the upcoming Chinese Grand Prix, Vettel shared insights regarding Hamilton's journey and chances with the iconic Italian team.

Vettel, who himself spent six seasons with Ferrari from 2015 to 2020, offers a wealth of experience from his tenure with the Scuderia. The German driver, who joined Ferrari as a champion following a successful stint at Red Bull, had aimed to replicate the success of his idol and friend, Michael Schumacher. Although Vettel showed potential while at Ferrari, particularly during the 2017 and 2018 seasons, it was Hamilton who ultimately prevailed driving for Mercedes during those years.

Reflecting on their past battles, Hamilton said in a 2021 press conference at Imola, "I've got a really bad memory, but I'm going to go and say mine and Seb's battles were my favorite up until now so far." This mutual respect continues, with Vettel now openly rooting for Hamilton's success with Ferrari.

When asked about the unique pressures and expectations at Ferrari, Vettel remarked:

"Maybe it is a bit, but I think Lewis is a competitor and he has very high expectations about himself so I think he's probably very ambitious to be in that seat right now and not so focused on the noise around, but more to make it work."

Discussing his own challenges in securing a championship with Ferrari, Vettel elaborated on why it didn’t quite work out for him:

"For me it didn't quite work because Lewis was there so let's see now how he will get on. But, yeah, my fingers [are] crossed. I obviously raced him a long time, we get along really well, and he's by far the most outspoken driver on the grid at the minute, his on-track skills don't need to be repeated. I think the numbers, statistics speak for themselves but it's great to see he's still on the grid and still has that influence and he uses it in a positive manner. So naturally my fingers are crossed for him to win the championship, but also Charles is there, I raced with him. I think it's a strong line up and in the end it takes a lot of things to come together to be there in the last couple of races to fight for the championship. We will see. It will be close, but I'm definitely not ruling anybody out."

As the 2026 regulations promise substantial changes to the cars, Hamilton will have a significant opportunity to fight for the championship when the development cycle begins afresh. For now, the 2025 season is shaping up to be tightly contested and thrilling, with both Vettel and fans worldwide keenly watching to see if Hamilton can secure another title.