On 1 February, the Formula 1 world was shaken as Ferrari announced the signing of the British driver, who will turn 40 next year, to join Charles Leclerc at the iconic Italian team starting from 2025. This surprising news defied all expectations, especially considering Hamilton’s previous statements indicating his intention to finish his career with Mercedes.
After two seasons without a single Grand Prix victory, adding to his impressive record of 103 wins with Mercedes-powered cars (21 of which were achieved during his time with McLaren), Hamilton had the opportunity to activate a departure clause that allowed him to switch teams.
So why did Hamilton choose Vasseur? The answer lies in their previous collaboration. Hamilton drove for ART Grand Prix in the GP2 Series (now Formula 2) when Fred Vasseur managed the team in the F1 feeder series. Under Vasseur’s guidance, Hamilton clinched the GP2 title in 2006. The following season, he made his debut in Formula 1 with McLaren, and the rest, as they say, is history.
With Vasseur taking charge of Ferrari since the beginning of 2022, Hamilton explained how their relationship influenced his decision: “I have a great connection with Fred. We worked together in Formula 3 and achieved tremendous success in both Formula 3 and GP2. That’s where our bond was formed.”
“We have always stayed in touch,” Hamilton reminisced. “I always believed that Fred had the potential to become an exceptional team manager and make his mark in Formula 1, even though he wasn’t interested in it at the time.”
“It was truly amazing to see him take on the role at Alfa [Sauber]. And when he landed the job at Ferrari, I was genuinely thrilled for him. I believe that this move wouldn’t have been possible without him. So I am incredibly grateful and excited to see the progress he’s making there.”
As for his decision to leave Mercedes, Hamilton revealed to the media in Bahrain: “When we signed the contract in the summer, I envisioned my future with Mercedes. However, an opportunity presented itself in the New Year, and I decided to seize it.”
“Undoubtedly, it was the toughest decision I have ever had to make. I have been supported by Mercedes for nearly 26 years, and together we have embarked on an extraordinary journey. We have made history in this sport, and I take immense pride in our achievements. However, I believe that I am the author of my own story, and I felt that it was time to turn the page and embark on a new chapter,” Hamilton concluded.
According to the Source grandprix247.com