Lewis Hamilton has reaffirmed his commitment to Ferrari after team principal Fred Vasseur criticised the team’s drivers for showing a lack of respect following their costly collision at the Mexico City Grand Prix.
The seven-time world champion, speaking ahead of this weekend’s Sao Paulo Grand Prix, insisted his regard for the Italian outfit had never been in doubt, despite Vasseur’s anger at the loss of a potential victory in Mexico.
Hamilton and Charles Leclerc had emerged from the opening corners in first and second before the Monegasque attacked his team-mate into Turn 4. The incident compromised Ferrari’s chances of securing a one-two finish, prompting Vasseur to question the drivers’ appreciation of the work being done behind the scenes.
The Frenchman described the collision as a lack of respect for the Ferrari brand, its workforce and the effort invested in improving the car’s performance.
Hamilton said discussions with Vasseur had taken place but admitted there had not yet been an opportunity for a detailed conversation.
“We haven’t really had the time to speak much in depth,” he said. “We have spoken, and I fully understand my responsibility to the team.”
The Briton was keen to emphasise the importance of Ferrari’s workforce and his own contribution to the team’s progress.
“We have so many people working so hard back at the factory; that’s why I’m always praising them,” Hamilton said.
“That’s why I’m always trying to show my appreciation for them and do my absolute utmost to help push the team forward, and I feel like I’ve been a big part of where we are today as a team, which is positive.”
Asked directly whether he accepted Vasseur’s criticism, Hamilton was unequivocal.
“I think my respect has always been the highest for my team,” he said.
With Ferrari still seeking answers over the Mexico incident, the relationship between its drivers and management remains under scrutiny ahead of the Brazilian weekend.
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