Should Hamilton and Leclerc Just Drive After Ferrari's Brazilian GP Setback?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Ferrari's chairman emphasizes the need for focus.
- Hamilton and Leclerc urged to prioritize performance.
- Both drivers face a challenging season with limited podiums.
- Upcoming races are crucial for Ferrari's standings.
- Team dynamics and improvements are necessary for future success.
New Delhi, Nov 10 (NationPress) Ferrari chairman John Elkann has sent a clear message to drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, urging them to focus on driving and limit their commentary after the team suffered a double retirement at the Brazilian Grand Prix. This disappointing outcome caused the Scuderia to drop to fourth place in the constructors' standings and continue their winless streak in 2025.
“Brazil was a significant disappointment,” Elkann remarked to Sky Sports following the failures of both cars at Interlagos.
“When we analyze the Formula 1 championship, we can confidently say that our mechanics are excelling with their performance and exceptional pit stops. Our engineers have undoubtedly enhanced the car. However, the rest is lacking. It is crucial for our drivers to concentrate on driving rather than talking, as we have important races ahead, and achieving second place is still within reach,” he stated.
Hamilton, who joined Ferrari this season under a multi-year contract, faced yet another challenging weekend. The seven-time world champion qualified in 13th position, fell to the back after colliding with Franco Colapinto, and ultimately retired due to damage from the incident. He was also issued a five-second penalty and expressed his frustration with the stewards, labeling them a “complete joke.”
“This [season] has been a nightmare, one that I have been enduring for some time,” Hamilton confessed after the race. “The contrast between the dream of racing for this incredible team and the nightmare of our results, with all the ups and downs, is truly challenging. This weekend has been dismal and disappointing for everyone involved. I am striving to stay positive and keep my head above water.”
Currently, Hamilton trails teammate Charles Leclerc, who has already secured seven podium finishes this season, by 66 points in the championship standings. Leclerc’s race ended prematurely in São Paulo due to a mechanical issue following a collision involving Oscar Piastri and Kimi Antonelli.
“Charles did an excellent job in qualifying, indicating that there is performance potential in that car,” Hamilton noted, trying to find silver linings. “At this juncture, I must believe that there is something positive waiting for us amidst all these challenges. Perhaps we are just exhausting our bad luck this year… who really knows? We will not surrender, and we will return stronger at the next race.”
As Ferrari's disappointing season continues with only three races left, the next challenge will be the Las Vegas Grand Prix from November 20 to 22. At 40 years old, Hamilton has never concluded a full F1 season without securing a podium finish, while Leclerc remains contracted with Ferrari until 2029.