Ferrari confirm Hamilton staying next year

Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur on Friday quelled speculation when he confirmed that seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton would stay with the Italian team next year.

The 41-year-old Briton continued his recent strong form, which brought his maiden win for Ferrari, by topping practice on Friday.

"Last year, I underestimated the scale of the transition from Mercedes to Ferrari," Vasseur told the Italian daily Corriere della Sera. "Everything was new to him and Lewis isn't one of those drivers who moves team every two three years."

Asked if he could confirm Hamilton for Ferrari in 2027, Vasseur said: "Yes."

"He knows the tools, the people and our approach now," said Vasseur. "And with these good results, he's entered a virtuous circle."

Vasseur said also that this year's Ferrari was not designed around Hamilton's requirements or style.

"Not at all, we don't tailor our F1 cars to one driver or another."