Lewis Hamilton was dealt a low blow last week regarding his 2025 move to Ferrari.

A Dutch racing driver doubted the seven-time World Champion’s performance, but Fred Vasseur has backed the British driver. Ferrari explains that Hamilton was always the first choice.

Lewis Hamilton is seeking an eighth Formula 1 World Championship. He will soon move to Ferrari and compete for the Italians in 2025 and again in 2026 when new rules and regulations hit the sport. But Dutch racing driver Tom Coronel delivered a low blow by suggesting Ferrari can only win a World Championship with Max Verstappen in the cockpit.

Coronel, who was a prominent figure in the World Touring Car Championship and made several appearances in Le Mans 24-hour race, explained his opinion about Hamilton’s deal at Ferrari. The Dutchman suggested that he was the second choice and that Ferrari really would’ve wanted Verstappen.

Was Hamilton first choice over Verstappen at Ferrari?

Speaking to the Italian outlet Corriere della Sera, Vasseur discussed his future driver, Hamilton. The seven-time World Champion experienced a win drought that lasted nearly 1,000 days, but the Frenchman never doubted his future prospects.

“I never had any doubts. I always believed it was a matter of motivation, as soon as he smells the victory he unleashes. Who knows how much he thinks about Ferrari in his head. He will give everything,” Vasseur said before dismissing any claims about him being second choice to Verstappen. He explains why Hamilton was always number one.

“Beyond Max’s long contract with Red Bull, Lewis is ideal for Ferrari. For his experience, for the relationship he has with Charles [Leclerc], and for the calmness,” Vasseur said.

Hamilton has 10 race weekends remaining with Mercedes, including this weekend’s Dutch Grand Prix. The German team is back on form after winning three of the last four events.