The 39-year-old has struggled lately, placing 12th in the most recent race in Qatar.
Despite the downturn, Ferrari’s head Fred Vasseur supports Hamilton to perform next year.
The 39-year-old superstar is set to transfer from Mercedes to Ferrari next season in a deal that some analysts estimate might be an astonishing £100million annually, contingent on the seven-time world champion achieving a title victory as part of his additional incentives.
Vasseur’s assurance attributes Hamilton’s odd decline in performance — he concluded the recent race in Qatar in 12th, eight positions behind teammate George Russell. Hamilton expressed that his vehicle was malfunctioning.
Vasseur remains unconcerned despite the recent challenges. “Absolutely not,” replied the Frenchman. ‘Observe the 50 laps he completed in Las Vegas, where he began in 10th place and ended up second, right behind Russell.’ I am not concerned at all.
Hamilton has been defeated in 23 of the 29 qualifying sessions against Russell — both sprint and grand prix — and is expected to finish behind him in points following Sunday’s final race in Abu Dhabi. He is 24 points behind his younger partner.
Hamilton stated in Qatar that he ‘certainly isn’t quick anymore,’ but the following day he remarked: ‘I still possess it.’ His Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff stated: ‘When he made the choice at the start of the season (to join Ferrari), we understood it might be a challenging year ahead, and that is quite normal.
He understands he is headed elsewhere, and we recognize our future is with (Hamilton’s successor) Kimi Antonelli. Thus, navigating the highs and lows while maintaining our bond is an accomplishment we have reached.
He displays his emotions openly. He shares his feelings and that is fine. No one can erase the 12 amazing years, including eight constructors’ championships and six drivers’ championships (won by Ham
ilton).
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