There is also the scandal surrounding Horner’s possible aggressive behavior towards one of his employees last year. At the time, Hamilton was one of the few drivers who commented on the events in more detail. While other drivers simply emphasized that the case did not concern them, Hamilton publicly called for a thorough investigation into the incidents – thereby driving Horner further into a corner. It was the beginning of the end for the team boss at Red Bull.
In view of this, it seems unthinkable that Horner and Hamilton would suddenly work together peacefully at Ferrari. In contrast, the relationship between Hamilton and his previous boss Vasseur is characterized by harmony. The two have known each other from their time in the junior classes and have known each other for almost 20 years. It was not for nothing that Hamilton emphasized in the face of the rumors: “Fred, the entire team and I are working very hard on the future.” The supportive undertones were hard to miss.
So Ferrari has to decide: Horner or Hamilton. Neither works. If you really want to sign Horner, Ferrari would have to get rid of Hamilton at the same time. It would be an earthquake of historic proportions in Formula 1 – and would cause a lot of unrest. In addition, the Italians would have to trust that the new team boss can mold the racing team’s second talented driver, Charles Leclerc, into a world champion. A risk that Ferrari shouldn’t take.