On February 1st, the Formula 1 world was shaken when Ferrari announced the signing of the British driver, who will turn 40 next year, to join Charles Leclerc in the iconic Italian team starting in 2025. This surprising news defied all expectations, especially considering Hamilton’s previous statements indicating his intention to end his career with Mercedes.
After two seasons without a single victory in the Grand Prix, adding to his impressive record of 103 wins with Mercedes cars (21 of which were achieved during his time with McLaren), Hamilton had the opportunity to activate an exit clause that allowed him to switch teams.
So why did Hamilton choose Vasseur? The answer lies in their previous collaboration. Hamilton raced for ART Grand Prix in the GP2 Series (now Formula 2) when Fred Vasseur managed the team in the Formula 1 feeder series. Under Vasseur’s guidance, Hamilton won the GP2 championship in 2006. The following season, he made his Formula 1 debut with McLaren, and the rest, as they say, is history.
With Vasseur taking over Ferrari from 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 always kept in touch,” Hamilton recalled. “I always believed Fred had the potential to become an exceptional team principal and make his mark in Formula 1, even if 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 got the job at Ferrari, I was genuinely thrilled for him. I believe this move wouldn’t have been possible without him. So, I’m incredibly grateful and excited to see the progress he’s making there.”
As for his decision to leave Mercedes, Hamilton revealed to the press in Bahrain: “When we signed the contract in the summer, I envisioned my future with Mercedes. However, an opportunity arose in the New Year and I decided to seize it.”
“Undoubtedly, it was the toughest decision I’ve ever had to make. I’ve been supported by Mercedes for almost 26 years, and together we embarked on an extraordinary journey. We made history in this sport, and I have immense pride in our achievements. However, I believe I am the author of my own story and felt it was time to turn the page and embark on a new chapter,” Hamilton concluded.
According to the source grandprix247.com
