Vasseur shuts down Hamilton question after Sainz podium

Ferrari Team Principal Frederic Vasseur moved to shut down a question regarding Lewis Hamilton after the Japanese Grand Prix.

One of the biggest talking points of the year so far has been Hamilton’s decision to depart Mercedes at the end of the season to join Ferrari in 2025.

The topic was much discussed in the build-up to the current season and has been labelled as one of the biggest driver moves in Formula 1 history.

Following the race in Suzuka last weekend, Hamilton was displeased with a question that was sent his way when asked if he was “looking forward to being with Ferrari next year because they’re faster”, prompting the seven-time world champion to walk away from the post-race session.

Shortly afterwards, Ferrari boss Vasseur also took issue with a question regarding his driver for next year.

Ferrari scored its fifth podium of the year in Japan with Carlos Sainz, who has stood on the podium at every race he has taken part in so far this year.

The Spaniard is enjoying in his final season with the Italian squad ahead of Hamilton’s arrival.

Amid Sainz’s run to his third podium in three races, a reporter began his question to Vasseur with talk of an “alternative reality where you hadn’t already signed Lewis Hamilton for 2025” - however Vasseur promptly cut them off.

“We have the same question each weekend,” said Vasseur. “Do a copy-paste of my reply of last week, next one.”