The blockbuster signing of Lewis Hamilton by Ferrari for the 2025 season has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 paddock, with many applauding Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur for securing the seven-time world champion. However, former Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto has voiced his skepticism, openly questioning whether this was the right move for Ferrari’s future.
Binotto, who led the Scuderia from 2019 to 2022 before being replaced by Vasseur, shared that while Hamilton’s move to Maranello is a “good choice” from Hamilton’s perspective, he wouldn’t have pursued the Briton if he were still in charge. According to Binotto, Hamilton’s presence could potentially overshadow Ferrari’s current star, Charles Leclerc, who, in his view, should have been the focal point of the team’s championship aspirations.
“No. But he made a very good choice to go to Ferrari, I agree with his decision,” Binotto said. He expressed concerns that Leclerc’s path to glory might be compromised, as Hamilton’s late-career switch could take the spotlight away from the young Monegasque driver, whom Binotto believes holds the talent to lead Ferrari back to championship success.
“Ferrari was betting on other drivers, and if Leclerc is the talent, it’s him that should’ve been led to the goal,” Binotto explained.
While Ferrari’s current leadership under Vasseur has revitalized the team, bringing them back to competitiveness with three race wins in the 2024 season, Binotto remains critical. He suggested that Vasseur’s approach has been more about maintaining continuity rather than creating a revolutionary structure at Ferrari, hinting that the team’s progress was more the result of groundwork laid during his tenure.
“Fred has been able to continue the project in the name of continuity, he has not revolutionized a structured and functional organization,” Binotto added, making it clear that while he respects Vasseur’s achievements, the current success is built on the foundations established before Vasseur’s arrival.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Hamilton’s move, Ferrari remains optimistic. The Italian outfit is banking on Hamilton’s experience to bring them closer to a title, while Leclerc will still be expected to play a pivotal role in the team’s future success. However, as Binotto’s remarks suggest, the key question is whether Ferrari can balance the ambitions of both drivers and deliver a car capable of competing at the highest level.
With the 2025 season promising to be one of Ferrari’s most anticipated in years, the Italian constructor must tread carefully. The combination of a seasoned veteran and a young talent could either become a dream pairing—or a source of internal conflict. One thing is clear: Binotto’s concerns highlight the delicate balance Ferrari must strike to achieve championship glory.
