F1 boss HITS BACK at Hamilton critics ahead of Ferrari switch

Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur has fired back at critics who have questioned seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton and the team's decision to sign him.

The Mercedes superstar will join the Maranello-based giants in 2025, replacing Carlos Sainz, who will line up for Williams from next season.

F1 HEADLINES: Ferrari pushing to fix MAJOR Hamilton problem as 'secret' revealed

READ MORE: Mercedes chief reveals key to SHOCK Hamilton victories

Despite Sainz himself previously admitting he understood the team's decision to bring Hamilton in, some have questioned whether the team are making an upgrade.

This was compounded by Hamilton's struggles earlier in the campaign and Sainz's relative success.

Fred Vasseur hails Lewis Hamilton

The Brit endured a miserable opening quarter in 2024 having been consistently outperformed by team-mate George Russell in his efforts to challenge the top of the order.

Sainz on the other hand, was a regular feature on the podium, and had already celebrated a victory at the Australian Grand Prix in what was an impressive start to the season.

However, Hamilton has closed the gap to his Spanish counterpart in recent weeks - aided by wins at Silverstone and Spa - and demonstrated why the 39-year-old is widely regarded as one of the best drivers in the sport's history.

The former McLaren star will hope to finish with a flourish at Mercedes before embarking on his new challenge at Ferrari, as he aims to win a historic eighth drivers' title, something Vasseur believes he is capable of doing.

READ MORE: Ferrari F1 boss reacts to Sainz Williams switch

Speaking to Sky Italia after Hamilton's controversial victory in Belgium, the Ferrari team principal highlighted that despite some previously claiming the 105-time race winner was past his best, he still has plenty to offer, hitting back at his critics.

“We certainly know the positive aspects of Lewis’ arrival, such as his great experience,” Vasseur said.

“Everyone since the beginning of the season has said that Russell is faster than him, but at the moment he is the one who has brought more points to Mercedes.

"So in terms of efficiency, I think he is a good point of reference.”

READ MORE: Marko insistent on Red Bull reshuffle despite Horner backing F1 star

Related

Daniel Ricciardo

Ricciardo F1 RETURN verdict issued as team chief offers comeback twist

• Yesterday 19:57

Isack Hadjar

Who is Isack Hadjar? The Red Bull phenom promoted to F1 for 2025

• December 20, 2024 16:47