In the lead-up to the Miami Grand Prix, seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton reportedly requested an urgent, confidential meeting with Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur. This unexpected meeting occurred mere hours before the race and has raised questions about Hamilton’s current situation at Ferrari. The Brit’s transition from Mercedes to Ferrari at the start of the 2025 season has been tumultuous, marked by inconsistent performances and mounting challenges on the track.
Hamilton’s frustrating race in Miami, where he finished eighth—three seconds behind teammate Charles Leclerc—followed a season of disappointing results. Despite a stunning sprint victory ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix, Hamilton has yet to secure a podium finish in any of the main races. Currently 12 points behind Leclerc in the standings, speculation regarding Hamilton’s discontent at Ferrari has swirled, fueled by his lack of success and rumors of a potential rift with the team’s new boss, Vasseur.
However, French F1 journalist Frederic Ferret, speaking on the F1 Nation podcast, dispelled such rumors, revealing the true nature of Hamilton’s interaction with Vasseur. According to Ferret, Hamilton’s meeting with Vasseur wasn’t a complaint, but rather a constructive discussion about tyre strategies. This, he clarified, took place early on race day, at 9 a.m., and Hamilton’s approach was one of collaboration rather than frustration. Ferret also highlighted that, despite the challenges, there was no underlying issue between Hamilton and Vasseur.
Ferret’s comments underscore the harmonious atmosphere within Ferrari, contrasting with the often sensationalized media narratives. He emphasized that there is no animosity between Hamilton and his new team, and that both sides remain focused on improvement. The atmosphere at Ferrari, he noted, is calm and optimistic, despite the rough start to the season. In fact, the mood within the team is described as “100% harmonious,” indicating a shared commitment to progress rather than discord.
As Hamilton prepares for Ferrari’s home race in Imola, the stakes are higher than ever. With mounting pressure to perform, particularly after a challenging start to the season, Hamilton’s next race could prove pivotal in defining his future with the Scuderia. Despite the current struggles, the meeting with Vasseur illustrates his proactive approach to resolving issues and his dedication to improving both his performance and his relationship with the team.