Jean Todt is not convinced that Ferrari will necessarily improve now that Lewis Hamilton has joined the team.
The former Ferrari boss, who oversaw the Michael Schumacher era of dominance, believes that the team was already well-positioned to fight for championships before signing the seven-time world champion.
"What does Ferrari lack to win? Very, very little. The team was already very close to it," Todt told Italian newspaper La Repubblica.
He also praised Ferrari's previous lineup of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz, insisting the team's struggles were not down to its drivers.
"Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz was a great lineup of drivers. Ferrari definitely did not lose because of the drivers."
Still, Todt acknowledged that Hamilton brings valuable experience to the team.
"Obviously, with Hamilton, the lineup will be of the highest level," he admitted. "Will it be better than the previous one? I have no idea. We'll have to see how good the car is."
Despite Hamilton's star power, Todt - whose son Nicholas manages Leclerc's career - doesn't believe Leclerc will be affected by the arrival of his high-profile teammate.
"I don't think Charles will be affected by Hamilton," he said. "For him, it could be an opportunity to be even more motivated, just like George Russell was at Mercedes."
Hamilton and Leclerc are currently testing Ferrari's 2024 car for Pirelli in Barcelona. Reports suggest that Hamilton clocked a fastest lap that was a tenth quicker than Leclerc's.
Meanwhile, Ferrari is expected to unveil a new livery with a darker shade of red for 2025.
Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna also commented on Hamilton's arrival, emphasizing the commercial benefits and his partnership with Leclerc.
"At a brand level, Lewis' arrival is certainly good," Vigna said in a financial conference call. "He will be a great pairing with Leclerc."
