Dutch racing driver Tom Coronel has criticised Ferrari’s decision to sign Lewis Hamilton for the 2025 Formula One season.
Coronel believes the Italian constructor should have pursued Max Verstappen instead, suggesting they should have offered him a blank cheque.
The comments come just weeks after Hamilton completed his first practice session as a Ferrari driver at the team’s training facility.
The seven-time world champion’s move to Ferrari was announced earlier this month, with Hamilton set to join the team on an initial two-year deal.
Lewis Hamilton has caused a stir with his move to Ferrari
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Speaking to RacingNews365, Coronel outlined his position: “If I had been Fred Vasseur, I would have sent the entire Verstappen camp a blank cheque.
“I would give him a blank cheque on which he can fill in the amount per year, as long as Max wears a red suit.”
The Dutch driver emphasised the importance of Ferrari in racing legacy, stating: “You are only really a successful racing driver if you win the title on a Ferrari.”
He suggested the financial investment would be worth it: “The company will almost go bankrupt. But if you want to win, that’s simply the only option.”
Hamilton’s perspective sharply contrasts with Coronel’s criticism, with the British driver expressing profound enthusiasm about his Ferrari debut.
“Driving a Scuderia Ferrari car for the first time this morning was one of the best feelings of my life,” Hamilton declared.
Max Verstappen is seen as the top talent on the grid
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He described having “the biggest smile” when driving through the garage door.
The experience reminded Hamilton of his first Formula One test, with the champion noting: “It was such an exciting and special moment, and here I am, almost 20 years later, feeling those emotions all over again.”
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur expressed satisfaction with Hamilton’s initial practice session at the team’s facility.
“Charles and Lewis did their laps in not the best weather, but they got back in the swing of things,” Vasseur said.
He noted the session helped prepare both drivers and crew: “It was also a warm-up for the team in the garage. That was the sole purpose of today.”
The practice took place ahead of the first proper test scheduled in Bahrain in a month’s time.
Hamilton further expressed his admiration for Ferrari’s heritage and fanbase.
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Lewis Hamilton was all smiles during his first test
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“I already knew from the outside how passionate the Ferrari family is, from everyone in the team to the Tifosi,” he said.
The British driver added: “But to now witness it first-hand as a Ferrari driver has been awe-inspiring. That passion runs through their veins and you can’t help but be energised by it.”
The 2025 Formula One campaign is set to begin on March 16.