Lewis Hamilton has emphatically dismissed speculation surrounding Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur's future, labeling the rumors as "nonsense." The seven-time world champion has voiced his full support for Vasseur, insisting that he is the right person to lead the team to the top of Formula 1.
The rumors surfaced amidst Ferrari's less-than-ideal start to the 2025 season. Despite holding second place in the constructors' championship, the team sits a significant 197 points behind leaders McLaren. This gap has led to increased scrutiny on Vasseur's position, with some Italian media outlets suggesting he could be replaced if results don't improve. Reports even hinted at Red Bull team principal Christian Horner potentially taking over.
Hamilton, however, has firmly refuted these claims. Speaking ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix, he expressed his disappointment at the circulating stories, emphasizing his strong working relationship with Vasseur. He stated that Vasseur was a primary reason for his move to Ferrari and that they are working together to improve the team's performance.
"It's definitely not nice to hear that there are stories like that out there," Hamilton said. "Firstly, I love working with Fred. Fred's the main reason I'm in this team and got the opportunity to be here, which I'm forever grateful for, and we're in this together."
Hamilton acknowledged that things aren't perfect within the team, and that changes and hard work are necessary to achieve their winning aspirations. However, he insisted that Vasseur's position is not up for debate. "Things aren't perfect, but for me, as I said, I'm here to work with the team, but also with Fred. I want Fred here. I do believe Fred is the person to take us to the top. And so that's that." He went on to say, "It's ultimately nonsense what people have written. Most people don't know what's going on in the background."
Hamilton also addressed the rumors surrounding his own future with Ferrari, dismissing suggestions that he was considering retiring or leaving the team early. He firmly stated his commitment to Ferrari for the long term. "And then also, to everyone that's writing stories of me considering not racing, I've literally only just started with Ferrari," Hamilton asserted. "I'm here for several years. I'm here for the long haul, so there is no question about where my head's at and what I'm working towards achieving with this team. There are zero doubts, so please stop making up stuff."
He further emphasized his support for Vasseur by stating that he wouldn't support Ferrari replacing him. "Again, I don't think that's on the cards as far as I am aware and that's certainly not something I would be supportive of," Hamilton said. "I'm here to win with Fred, and he has my full support."
Hamilton's strong defense of Vasseur underscores the importance of stability and trust within the Ferrari team as they strive to close the gap to McLaren and return to championship-winning form.