Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur has opened up about what makes Lewis Hamilton stand out among the Formula 1 grid, emphasizing that the seven-time world champion operates like no other driver in the sport. As Hamilton gears up to join Ferrari in 2025, Vasseur praised the Briton’s unparalleled work ethic and organization, describing him as a “machine” who approaches his career with the precision of a corporation.
Hamilton, who has raced continuously in Formula 1 since 2007, has etched his name in history as the most statistically successful driver of all time. Vasseur, speaking about the 39-year-old’s arrival at Ferrari, said Hamilton’s disciplined approach is what sets him apart from the rest of the 20-man F1 grid.
“Lewis is a machine,” Vasseur said, highlighting Hamilton’s unique ability to structure his life and career like a well-oiled business. “The main difference between Lewis and the majority of the grid – and I don’t want to make personal comparisons – is that he is organized like a company.”
Vasseur explained that Hamilton’s success is driven by his ability to compartmentalize every aspect of his racing activities. The Ferrari boss believes this mindset will be invaluable for Ferrari when Hamilton joins the Italian outfit next season.
“In his mind, in his approach, he knows what he wants to do, when he wants to do it,” Vasseur continued. “He’s able to separate every single pillar of the activity, and for us, for Ferrari, it will be helpful.”
Ferrari has long been known for its strong internal culture, and while Hamilton will bring his own experience and perspective to Maranello, Vasseur is confident the Briton will integrate smoothly into the team. He also noted that the two share a long-standing relationship, dating back to Hamilton’s early years in motorsport, which will further benefit their collaboration.
“Internally, it won’t change life except that Lewis is coming with his own experience, his own maturity,” Vasseur explained. “I knew Lewis when he was not a champion, and we built up a different relationship. This will be helpful for me.”
Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has been hailed as a significant coup for the Scuderia, which has struggled to return to championship-winning form in recent years. His vast experience and relentless drive are expected to offer Ferrari crucial insights as they aim to end their long title drought.
With Hamilton on board for 2025, Ferrari fans are hopeful that his expertise will lead the team back to the top of the Formula 1 standings. However, as always in F1, it remains to be seen how the partnership will evolve and whether Hamilton can finally bring championship glory back to Maranello.