Lewis Hamilton has voiced concerns that ongoing speculation about Christian Horner potentially joining Ferrari is proving distracting for the team.
The seven-time world champion admitted the rumours linking the former Red Bull boss with a role at the Italian outfit are "a little bit distracting" and "naturally aren't helpful" as the team tries to focus on improving their performance.
"I don't know where the rumours have come from so I can't really shed much light on that," Hamilton said.
"But it's a little bit distracting for us as a team. The team has made it clear where they stand in terms of re-signing Fred.
Lewis Hamilton has voiced concerns that ongoing speculation about Christian Horner potentially joining Ferrari is proving distracting for the team
|SKY SPORTS
"Fred and I and the whole team are working really hard on the future of the team. These things naturally aren't helpful."
When asked if there was any truth in the rumours, Hamilton simply replied: "I don't, and I'm not going to entertain rumours."
Rumours have suggested that Christian Horner could be returning to the F1 grid soon with Ferrari
|GETTY
Horner, who left Red Bull in September after two decades in charge, has been linked with various teams since his departure.
Recent reports suggested Ferrari chairman John Elkann has held exploratory conversations with the 51-year-old Briton about a possible position at Maranello.
The team's fortunes have taken a particularly sharp downturn since the summer break, with Ferrari failing to secure any top-three finishes during this period.
This disappointing run has sparked renewed speculation about potential changes within the team's leadership structure.
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The struggles have been particularly frustrating for Hamilton, who made the high-profile switch from Mercedes at the start of the season, though his first year with Ferrari has fallen well short of expectations.
The British driver hasn't managed a single podium finish through 18 races this season, marking an extremely challenging debut in red.
Hamilton is determined to shift attention towards preparing for the 2026 season, when new technical regulations come into effect.
Lewis Hamilton has endured a nightmare debut campaign for Ferrari so far
|REUTERS
"For me, it's really trying to keep the focus on the goal that's in front of us and building on next year's car," he explained.
The veteran driver revealed he's been having "lots of meetings" to ensure Ferrari is heading in the right direction.
He visited the team's Maranello headquarters between races to help build foundations for improvement.
"Next year we can have better execution, better overall performance," Hamilton said.
"As I said back in Spa, just having lots of meetings trying to make sure we're sailing in the right direction."
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