Hamilton: Aston Martin F1 move for Vettel is ‘ideal’

Lewis Hamilton believes Sebastian Vettel’s switch to Aston Martin for the 2021 Formula 1 season is an ‘ideal’ move. 

Vettel’s switch to Racing Point - who will be rebranded as Aston Martin for next season - was confirmed on Thursday morning ahead of media day for the Tuscan Grand Prix at Mugello.

Sergio Perez’s exit from the team was announced last night, with Vettel being the obvious candidate for the seat given the rumours linking the four-time F1 champion to the Silverstone-based team.

While they have been intense rivals for much of their careers, Hamilton and Vettel share a strong friendship and the Briton was “really pleased” the German would be extending his F1 career past this year.

“Honestly I thought that was the ideal direction that he was going to go,” Hamilton said. “I thought that it would happen. I was really pleased to hear it because that team has new ownership, has already taken a huge step forwards in its performance and it will continue to grow.”

Racing Point currently sits fourth in the constructors’ championship and has enjoyed a strong upturn in form in 2020.

Hamilton believes Vettel is the perfect driver to help the team continue to move up the grid given his wealth of experience and track record as a four-time world champion.

“Maybe I’m biased, but I believe that experience counts for a huge amount,” Hamilton added. “He’s obviously had a difficult time at Ferrari but he’s a four-time champion that can steer that team even further in a better direction in terms of car development. I think you should never take that for granted. It’s a great move for the team.

“Of course I’m sorry for Sergio, but he’s a great driver and I’m sure, hopefully, he’ll have other options.”