Lewis Hamilton is eagerly looking forward to the summer break. Despite two more days of the Hungarian Grand Prix on the schedule, the seven-time world champion really needs a break after his ‘most intense’ season in years. This year, the Brit is driving in Ferrari red for the first time. ‘It’s really been a battle,’ Hamilton sighs.
On Thursday, Ferrari announced that Frédéric Vasseur will remain at the helm of the Italian racing team for the coming years. Charles Leclerc was delighted with the Frenchman’s contract extension, and Lewis Hamilton also has confidence in the continued collaboration. “It was Fred who hired me,” the Brit tells in Hungary. Hamilton decided in 2024 to trade in his long-standing loyalty to Mercedes for Ferrari.
The British driver, due to his long collaboration with the Silver Arrows, has naturally gained a lot of experience with the leadership of team boss Toto Wolff. According to Hamilton, the Austrian leads his team very differently than Vasseur. “But they are both true racers, so they have that in common. What I remember from working with Toto is how well he was able to understand how to get the best out of someone. For example, he made sure I had the freedom to express myself in my own way, and that enabled me to be the best version of myself. I think Fred is very similar in that respect, but I’m still trying to learn how Fred prefers to work.”
Hamilton’s Need for a Break
Hamilton’s time at Ferrari has so far been marked by adjustment. “The past however many seasons have each been tough in their own way,” the driver tells Sky Sports F1. “But this season has undoubtedly been the most intense, purely from a work perspective. Not everything has gone smoothly, and it’s really been a struggle.” The world champion is therefore looking forward to the summer break. “I definitely need to take some time out to recharge, to laugh, and to let go. I’m sure there will be tears at some point, and I think that’s very healthy.” Hamilton does add that he is looking forward to racing again afterwards.
