Lewis Hamilton has described rumours linking Christian Horner with a future move to Ferrari as 'not helpful' to the team's pursuit of improved performance. The seven-time world champion, who joined the Italian squad from Mercedes this season, is enduring a difficult maiden campaign and has yet to secure a podium finish in a Grand Prix for Ferrari.
Speaking ahead of this weekend's United States Grand Prix in Austin, Hamilton addressed the speculation that Horner, who has negotiated his exit from Red Bull for 2026, could replace team principal Frederic Vasseur. 'I don't know where the rumours have come from, so I can't really shed much light on that,' Hamilton said. 'It's a little bit distracting for us as a team. The team have made it clear where they stand by re-signing Fred.'
Hamilton stressed the importance of stability, noting that Vasseur and the team are focused on future development. 'These rumours can sometimes be really distracting, but for me it's about trying to keep the focus on the goal in front of us and building on next year's car,' he added. Ferrari handed Vasseur a new multi-year contract earlier this year, reaffirming their commitment to the Frenchman.
Hamilton currently sits sixth in the drivers' championship, 48 points behind teammate Charles Leclerc. Ferrari is the only top-four team yet to win a Grand Prix in 2025, with McLaren, Red Bull and Mercedes all securing multiple victories. The team's attention is increasingly turning to the 2026 car under new regulations, with Hamilton's contract set to expire at the end of next season, though an option for 2027 exists.
