Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has addressed growing speculation surrounding Lewis Hamilton’s future after a troubling radio exchange during the Hungarian Grand Prix ignited concern among fans. The British icon endured another lackluster weekend, compounding what has been a turbulent debut season with the Scuderia.
Hamilton’s history at the Hungaroring has been formidable, having always finished inside the top ten whenever he reached the chequered flag. However, this impressive record came to an abrupt halt as he failed to progress beyond Q2 in qualifying and ultimately crossed the line in 12th—matching his starting position. The dismal outing was punctuated by an apologetic radio message immediately after the race, in which Hamilton lamented, “Really sorry about this weekend, guys, for losing you points.”
These words, coupled with his startling pre-race admission that Ferrari should “probably change the driver,” intensified speculation about a premature exit from Maranello. Fans flooded social media with questions regarding his motivation and long-term commitment to the project. Addressing these concerns, Vasseur sought to quell rumors, asserting that Hamilton’s remarks were borne out of frustration rather than a genuine lack of desire. “I don’t need to motivate him,” Vasseur declared. “Honestly, he’s frustrated, but not demotivated. He’s demanding—that’s why he’s a seven-time world champion.”
Vasseur emphasized that Hamilton’s exacting standards extend to every facet of the operation, including himself, underscoring the Briton’s relentless pursuit of perfection. “I can understand his frustration. That’s normal after a weekend like this, but he will come back,” Vasseur added, projecting confidence that Hamilton will rebound after the summer hiatus. The team boss’ remarks were a clear attempt to reaffirm internal unity amid mounting external scrutiny.
As Hamilton enters the mid-season break sitting sixth in the Drivers’ Championship and still searching for his first podium with Ferrari—despite an early-season sprint victory in China—the pressure is palpable. The upcoming Dutch Grand Prix will offer Hamilton both a chance for redemption and an opportunity to silence whispers about an early end to one of Formula One’s most high-profile partnerships. For now, Ferrari’s message is unequivocal: their star driver remains fully backed to deliver.
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