Vasseur Sets Hamilton Major Podium Target After Encouraging Italian GP Showing

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has challenged Lewis Hamilton to secure his first F1 podium for the Scuderia, following an impressive performance at the Italian Grand Prix.

Why it matters

Hamilton's recent showing at Monza, despite a grid penalty, has reignited confidence within Ferrari regarding his potential. It marks an unusual period for the seven-time champion, who has now gone 16 races with Ferrari without a podium, and 18 overall since his last top-three finish at the 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix for Mercedes. Never in his illustrious career has Hamilton failed to achieve a podium in a season, and Vasseur is adamant that 2025 will not be the first.

The details

Hamilton initially qualified fifth fastest for his Monza debut with Ferrari but started from 10th after a five-place grid penalty incurred at Zandvoort for a yellow-flag infringement. Despite the setback, he skillfully climbed to finish sixth in the race.

• Hamilton executed several strong overtakes throughout the Grand Prix, notably passing Fernando Alonso.
• He finished just 4.4 seconds behind George Russell, who secured a clean run to fifth place.
• The gap to his teammate Charles Leclerc, who finished fourth, was 12 seconds.
• Vasseur pointed to Hamilton's improved pace and fighting spirit, referencing his battle with Russell at Zandvoort and his comeback at Monza as clear indicators of his capability.

The bigger picture

Vasseur highlighted an undeniable shift in Hamilton's performance and mood, which began at Zandvoort and intensified after the extraordinary reception from the Tifosi in Milan. "The mood was better during the race, he was fighting with Russell until Lap 30... and I think the energy he received from the Tifosi on Wednesday in Milan was something very special for him," Vasseur explained. This 'mega boost' provided Hamilton with extra drive throughout the Italian GP weekend, with strong pace evident from the very first practice session.

What's next

With Hamilton's undeniable talent and the recent signs of improved form and morale, Vasseur is confident that a podium finish for Ferrari is within reach. The team will undoubtedly focus on maximizing their performance to help Hamilton achieve this significant milestone, ending his current podium drought and affirming his impact at Ferrari.