Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has admitted that performance takes priority over diversity initiatives at the Italian constructor.
The Frenchman acknowledged the importance of diversity but made it clear where his priorities lie.
This stance comes following Lewis Hamilton's move to the Italian-based side, with the 40-year-old a leading advocate for diversity in Formula 1.
Hamilton remains the only black driver to have competed in F1 and has used his platform to push for increased representation in the sport.
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has admitted that performance takes priority over diversity initiatives at the Italian constructor
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In an interview with TIME Magazine, Vasseur was candid about his priorities.
"It's not politically correct, but first is performance," he said.
He did express commitment to diversity efforts at Ferrari, however, insisting they're 'doing our best effort'.
"I'm keen to go into the direction of diversity and so on. We are doing our best effort. We are trying to push in this direction, but I want to build up the best team," Vasseur explained.
This approach may signal a slower adaptation process at Ferrari compared to Mercedes.
Ferrari chief Fred Vasseur insists the team are doing their 'best' to be more diverse
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Hamilton expressed concerns about leaving the diverse environment he helped create at Mercedes.
"I did think, Oh my God, I've finally got a more diverse working environment that we've built over time," Hamilton admitted to the same publication.
He compared the move to Ferrari with his early days at Mercedes.
"And now I'm going back to the beginning of my time with Mercedes, where it wasn't diverse," he said.
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This reflection came as Hamilton signed his Ferrari contract in early 2024.
Despite challenges, the F1 icon remains committed to fighting for diversity in Formula 1.
He acknowledged opposition from various quarters, including US president Donald Trump's attacks on 'DEI hires'.
Hamilton, who has business interests and a residence in the United States, recognises his limitations.
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"I'm not going to change what he does, or the government does," he said.
Yet he remains determined in his mission.
"All I can do is try to make sure that in my space, in my environment, I'm trying to elevate people," Hamilton stated.
"That doesn't stop me. It is a fight that we'll just keep fighting."
Hamilton has faced racism in F1 before, notably during pre-season testing in 2008 in Barcelona.
Lewis Hamilton remains keen for more diversity in F1
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He admitted that potential racism in Italy crossed his mind when deciding to join Ferrari.
"I'm not going to lie, it definitely crossed my mind when I was thinking about my decision," Hamilton revealed.
However, he remains optimistic about his move.
"Like in so many things, it's often such a small group of people that set that trend for many. I don't think it's going to be a problem."
