In a recent interview with BBC’s Sportsworld, Vettel stated: “For me, it didn’t quite work because Lewis was there, so let’s see now how he will get on.” Despite this admission, the German driver emphasized that he holds no grudge against Hamilton and even supports him in the upcoming season.

Hamilton Responds

“I have immense respect for Seb, and we had some incredible battles over the years. But to say that I was the reason he didn’t win a title at Ferrari is a bit of an oversimplification. It wasn’t just about me; it was about the performance of the teams, the strategy, and how the seasons played out,” Hamilton explained.

He further elaborated on Ferrari’s internal challenges, saying: “I think Ferrari had a strong car at times, but we at Mercedes were just relentless. It wasn’t just about having the fastest car—it was about execution, teamwork, and making the right decisions under pressure.”

A Rivalry Built on Mutual Respect

“Seb is a legend of the sport, and I’ve always admired his values and his dedication, both on and off the track. If he ever decides to come back, I’d love to see him in a competitive car again,” Hamilton said.