Lewis Hamilton's latest stance on Ferrari's future emerges as frustrations clear

Fred Vasseur has publicised his appreciation for the support of Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton after signing a new contract. The Frenchman made it clear that his drivers are both 'on board' and are 'convinced that we're taking steps forward'.

Heading into the Hungarian Grand Prix, Ferrari can enjoy some brief stability. Vasseur, whose deal was set to expire at the end of the year, has signed a multi-year contract extension, ending rampant speculation over his future at the head of the F1 operation. Throughout the speculation, both Leclerc and Hamilton have come to bat for their boss. The seven-time world champion even went as far as to name Vasseur as "the main reason I'm in this team and got the opportunity to be here".

Vasseur was asked what Hamilton's support meant to him ahead at the Hungaroring on Friday. His reply gave an insight into the Brit's commitment to the Ferrari F1 project, and his optimism for the future.

"I'm happy because I like the character, I like Lewis," Vasseur told Canal Plus. "We've known each other for a long time, we've won together in the past, and it's important for me to know that I have the support of the drivers because when you no longer have the support of the drivers in a team, it's over.

"So, they're on board, they're both really convinced that we're taking steps forward, which aren't always visible, but that we're trying to progress within the team structure, and that's working and will work. And having them on board is crucial."

From early in the 2025 campaign, Hamilton has been looking ahead to 2026 as his best chance to deliver Ferrari's first F1 title since 2007, and his record-breaking eighth. This year has been a brutal test for the legendary Brit, who is still without his first podium for his new team.

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Hamilton's frustrations have been plain to see amidst this struggle. The 40-year-old has rarely been comfortable behind the wheel of the SF-25, getting used to his new systems and the different traits compared to Mercedes' machinery, which he drove for the previous 12 years.

"The last god knows how many seasons have been hard in their own way," he said, opening up at the Hungarian GP. "This one's definitely been the most intense one, I would say. Just from a work perspective, integrating into a new culture, into a new team.

"It's not gone smoothly in all areas, and it's been a real battle. Yeah, my spirit, I definitely need to get away and recharge, be around the kids, laugh, let go. I'm sure there'll be some tears at some point, and I think that's really healthy."

While the Brit needs a break, his work ethic has been exemplary thus far in 2025. In Belgium, he revealed that he has been putting together documents to send to his engineers and team-mates as he looks to drag F1's sleeping giant back into title contention.