Lewis Hamilton rallies behind Fred Vasseur amid Ferrari boss exit speculation

Lewis Hamilton Backs Ferrari Boss Fred Vasseur Amid Rumors of Leadership Uncertainty

MONTREAL — Lewis Hamilton has come out in full support of Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur, calling him "the person to take us to the top" in response to fresh rumors that the Frenchman’s tenure with the legendary Scuderia may be under threat.

Reports from the Italian publication Corriere della Sera on Wednesday suggested that Vasseur’s position is precarious following what they labeled an “unsatisfactory” start to the 2025 season. The outlet also speculated that Antonello Coletta—widely credited with steering Ferrari’s endurance team to consecutive Le Mans 24 Hours victories—could be in line as his replacement.

Ferrari, however, has dismissed the claims. When asked to comment, a team spokesperson told ESPN: "Not even worth commenting [on]."

Hamilton Defends Vasseur and Dismisses Speculation

Hamilton, who joined Ferrari from Mercedes amid much fanfare, didn’t hold back in dismissing the speculation during Thursday's media session ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix.

“It’s definitely not nice to hear stories like that,” Hamilton said. "Firstly, I love working with Fred. Fred is the main reason I’m in this team, and I’m forever grateful for the opportunity to be here because of him. We’re in this together. Things aren’t perfect, but I’m here to work with this team and with Fred. I want Fred here. I do believe Fred is the person to take us to the top."

Hamilton emphatically shut down the idea of Vasseur’s potential dismissal:

“I don’t think that’s on the cards, as far as I’m aware. That’s certainly not something I would be supportive of. I’m here to win with Fred. He has my full support.”

Challenges During Hamilton's Ferrari Tenure

Hamilton’s tenure with Ferrari has yet to deliver the expected results, with his only victory coming in a sprint race in China. The seven-time world champion has not finished on the podium in a main race since joining the team, and his Spanish Grand Prix performance—where he finished far outside the points—was described by Hamilton as the "worst race" of his celebrated career.

Despite these struggles, Hamilton dismissed any speculation about his long-term commitment to Ferrari or his motivation to continue competing in Formula 1.

“To everyone writing stories about me considering not racing… I’ve literally just started with Ferrari, and I’m here for several years. I’m here for the long haul," Hamilton said. "There is no question where my head’s at and what I’m working towards achieving with this team. So, please stop making things up.”

Ferrari’s Expectations and Leadership Speculation

Ferrari arrived in 2025 with sky-high expectations, fueled by its resurgence late last season when it came within striking distance of the constructors’ championship, only to lose out narrowly to McLaren. Vasseur, who took over in 2023 following the departure of Mattia Binotto, was initially praised for bringing much-needed stability to a team often consumed by external pressure and local media scrutiny.

However, consistency remains elusive for Ferrari, and the Italian press—known for oscillating between fervent support and scathing criticism—has been quick to turn on Vasseur in recent weeks.

Speculation over Ferrari’s leadership isn’t new. Just two weeks ago, Red Bull’s Christian Horner shot down a Bild report that Ferrari chairman John Elkann had approached him to replace Vasseur. Horner called the rumors flattering but reaffirmed his longstanding commitment to Red Bull.

“Look, of course, it’s always flattering to be associated with other teams,” Horner said. “But my commitment is 100% with Red Bull. It always has been and certainly will be for the long term.”

The Immense Expectations at Maranello

Vasseur finds himself in the crosshairs of a familiar challenge for Ferrari leaders: managing the immense weight of both external and internal expectations. As the Scuderia continues its search for a return to championship-winning form, the relationship between Hamilton and Vasseur could prove decisive in maintaining stability during this turbulent period.

For now, the star driver’s unequivocal support may help Vasseur weather the storm, but Ferrari’s results on the track will ultimately dictate how long calm prevails in Maranello.

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