Lewis Hamilton forced to release statement denying he demanded Ferrari team member be replaced after multiple spats

LEWIS HAMILTON has hit back at claims that he asked for team personnel at Ferrari to be replaced. The seven-time world champion released a statement on Instagram after reports in Italian media claimed he had been pushing team boss Fred Vasseur to make operational changes. Lewis Hamilton has hit back at claims he asked to change some Ferrari personnel Credit: PA Hamilton had called out Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur Credit: PA It came after two disappointing races in Monza and Madrid left Hamilton 101 points off championship leader Kimi Antonelli. He said: “I’ve seen some of the stories that have gone out and I want to clear it up here. Sign up for the Sport newsletter Thank you! “I’ve never asked for anyone on my team to be replaced. Everyone I work with works hard every day, and their dedication is what moves us forward. “I always try to empower and lift people to be the best versions of themselves or at least see the best in themselves. “I may not always achieve that but it’s my intention and what I’m here to do. We all work together and that will continue.” A frustrated Hamilton pushed for “rules of engagement” at Ferrari after he was squeezed wide into the gravel by his own team-mate Charles Leclerc on the opening lap in Monza. The British driver specifically called out team boss Vasseur, saying, “the buck starts with Fred (Vasseur)” before Ferrari held talks with their drivers where Leclerc admitted he was at fault for the incident. Hamilton has not scored a podium in the last five races and threw the towel in on the title fight at the Spanish Grand Prix last time out. Most read in Sport CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS F1 2026 RACE CALENDAR: ALL THE INFO YOU NEED He said: “I think there’s no stopping him (Antonelli) and Mercedes this year, “They’ve done a phenomenal job and they deserve it.” The best travel deals for F1 NOTHING comes close to the thrill of a live Grand Prix – and YOU can be there to see it all. Get the full F1 experience with these unbeatable deals. 🇪🇸 SPAIN – 11 to 13 Sept – From £1,099pp 🇦🇿 AZERBAIJAN – 22 to 27 Sept – From £1,399pp 🇸🇬 SINGAPORE– 7 to 14 Oct – From £1,999pp 🇺🇸 AUSTIN, USA – 21 to 26 Oct – From £2,799pp 🇶🇦 QATAR – 27 to 29 Nov – From £1,049pp 🇦🇪 ABU DHABI – 4 to 6 Dec – From £2,049pp See ALL our F1 travel offers HERE *If you click on a link in this article, we will earn affiliate revenue. Comment now