Williams team principal James Vowles interrupted a question during Friday’s pre-race press conference to deliver a passionate defence of Ferrari’s Fred Vasseur, who has faced heavy criticism in recent weeks over his work at the Italian constructor.
Vowles backs Vasseur amid criticism
Pointing out that team principals usually attack each other, Vowles was keen to show his support for Vasseur, who has endured a testing few weeks. He remarked: "Normally, we beat each other up and put knives in our backs. But Ferrari is in the best place it's been in the championship for a while."
"They have innovation on the car this year with the rear wing and exhaust blowing. That we've all copied as a result of it. It's a team that's doing brilliantly. So, for me personally, there is no question that Fred is the right person to do this."
Hamilton echoes support
Lewis Hamilton weighed in on the debate in recent days with a similar message, saying: "There seems to be a lot of focus on one individual in one role here. And you can see that it’s switched out with lots of different people in Fred’s role (through the years). But Fred is a fantastic leader. He is the guy to take this team in the right direction."
"However, there is a structure that’s been there for some time. Whether that needs looking at moving forward, there are obviously people above Fred. And it’s not about one person. There are changes I would make, but I am not going to talk about what those are. Toto is in a different position to Fred. The structure is a lot different."
Championship standings and upcoming races
Despite a rocky few weeks, Hamilton remains in touching distance of second-placed George Russell in the Drivers’ Championship, while Ferrari are comfortably second in the Constructors’ Championship standings. They will look to consolidate those positions this weekend when the Formula One circus descends on the Sepang International Circuit.
This weekend’s race comes under the banner of the Bahrain Grand Prix, but it is being held in Malaysia due to continued tensions in the Middle East. Following the rearranged Bahrain Grand Prix, it’s over to Singapore next weekend.
