Amid the Lewis Hamilton fever at Maranello this week, the Ferrari team boss had a thought for the absent Carlos Sainz.
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton’s arrival at the legendary Italian team and his first laps in a 2023 F1 car at Fiorano on Wednesday dominated Formula 1 headlines.
Frédéric Vasseur admitted that Charles Leclerc was very far from the spotlight – even though he was also doing laps on the foggy and cold Fiorano test track.
"Maybe today was less special for Charles," smiled Vasseur, “but it was good to see that he is fit and relaxed and looking forward to racing again.”
Leclerc admitted that the spotlight was on his new and famous teammate.
“Of course it was nice to see Lewis take his first laps in a Ferrari, which was a special moment for the team and for him.”
Vasseur, for his part, had a thought for Sainz, who, after being replaced by Hamilton for 2025 and beyond, had to agree to return to the starting grid at Williams.
“In recent years, Carlos has been able to create an excellent relationship with everyone.”
-“Carlos is always 100% – and a very consistent driver. That was a big advantage for us, because when he wasn’t in the top positions it meant the car wasn’t capable of it.”
“For us it has been very helpful in the development of the car. I know Carlos is going to do a fantastic job with Williams. I wish him and James Vowles all the best.”
“I know them both very well and I’m sure they will have a great relationship.”
Hamilton and Leclerc will return to action on track in Barcelona next week for a much more intense program, over several days.
Belgium
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