Lewis Hamilton has expressed that the recent rumors regarding Christian Horner’s potential move to Ferrari are unwelcome distractions. Reports surfaced indicating that Ferrari chairman John Elkann was interested in Horner, the former Red Bull team principal. This interest comes after Horner’s $100 million settlement upon his dismissal from Red Bull in July. At 51 years old, he seeks to return to the Formula 1 management scene.
Hamilton’s Response to the Speculation
As the United States Grand Prix approaches, Hamilton commented, “I don’t know where the rumours have come from, so I can’t really shed much light on that.” He emphasized that such speculation can be detrimental to team focus. “These things naturally aren’t helpful. I know everyone back at the factory is working incredibly hard, focused,” he added.
Team Dynamics and Focus
When questioned about the legitimacy of the reports or whether it would be beneficial for Horner to lead Ferrari, Hamilton firmly stated, “No, and I’m not going to entertain those [rumours].”
- Christian Horner is reportedly seeking a return to F1 management.
- The settlement from Red Bull amounts to $100 million.
- Lewis Hamilton voiced concerns about distractions before a pivotal race.
Endorsement of Current Leadership
During the Singapore Grand Prix, Aston Martin’s team boss Andy Cowell remarked that Horner appears to be in discussions with various team owners. However, he dismissed any link between Horner and Aston Martin. Similarly, Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu expressed no interest in having Horner join his team.
In July, Ferrari secured team principal Fred Vasseur with a multi-year contract, alleviating speculation surrounding his future. Hamilton and teammate Charles Leclerc have both shown their support for Vasseur, emphasizing the importance of team cohesion.
Looking Ahead in the Season
Hamilton noted that the rumors are a distraction but reaffirmed the team’s commitment to focusing on development and performance. “We are working on the future of the team,” he stated. He emphasized the significance of refining team processes and achieving optimal results in the final six races of the season.
- Final six races are crucial for maximising points.
- Focus on improving team processes for future performance.
In conclusion, Hamilton is determined to keep the team’s attention on their goals. With ongoing discussions and strategic plans in place, Ferrari aims to bolster its performance both for this season and the next.
