Blow for Hamilton: Vasseur explains why Newey decided not to join Ferrari
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After his announced departure from Red Bull Racing, Adrian Newey was strongly linked to Ferrari. This only intensified the hype around Lewis Hamilton's signing. But he ultimately decided to go to Aston Martin, meaning he will not partner with the seven-time World Champion. Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur explains why Newey did not choose the Maranello-based Formula 1 team.
Vasseur: 'Newey had different ideas about that'
Ferrari recently announced a new technical structure. Loic Serra and Jerome d'Ambrosio are both part it. They both previously had experience with Mercedes. Newey, however, will not become part of the technical team despite persistent rumours earlier this year.
Vasseur admits he held talks with Newey but states that the parties could not agree. He, therefore, decided early on not to pursue the top designer. "He probably had a different idea than what I had in mind for him," the Ferrari team boss remains somewhat cryptic in conversation with l'Equipe. "Maybe one day we will come to an understanding."
But good news for Hamilton: Key people join from Mercedes
While Newey is closing the door behind him at Milton Keynes, Enrico Cardile (former chassis technical director) has done the same at Ferrari. Serra will be his replacement and will start work from 1 October. This means Hamilton has familiar faces to work alongside in addition to Vasseur. "Loic's strength is that he is an experienced man who has spent a lot of time at the highest level," said Vasseur.
D'Ambrosio also comes over from Toto Wolff's team. "It was important for me to have someone with Jerome's knowledge. He has experienced everything in racing - as a driver, team boss and CEO of a team. He knows the business," concluded the Ferrari team boss.
This article has been created in collaboration with Matt Gretton
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