Ferrari Chairman Roasts Leclerc and Hamilton: 'Focus on Driving and Talk Less'

Ferrari chairman John Elkann delivered a blunt message to his drivers, including incoming Lewis Hamilton and current star Charles Leclerc, urging them to "focus on driving and talk less." This sharp criticism came on the heels of a disappointing double DNF for Ferrari at Interlagos, which saw them lose further ground to Mercedes in the Constructors' Championship.

Why it matters:

Elkann's public reprimand underscores the mounting pressure within Ferrari to perform consistently and reflects a deep-seated frustration with the team's championship aspirations. His words highlight a perceived lack of singular focus on the team's success, a critical element if Ferrari is to return to its winning ways and challenge for titles.

The Details:

• Post-Interlagos Disappointment: Elkann expressed "huge disappointment" with the Interlagos weekend, where both Ferrari cars retired early.
• Contrasting Performances: He praised the mechanics for "excellent work" during pit stops and acknowledged improvements in the car by the engineers. However, he stated, "Looking at the rest, it isn't up to standard."
• Driver Focus: Elkann's primary concern revolved around driver distraction, directly instructing them to "focus on driving and talk less." This sentiment applies to both current and future drivers, including Lewis Hamilton, who is set to join Ferrari.
• Team Cohesion: He emphasized the importance of working "cohesively" and reiterated that drivers must "think not of themselves, but of Ferrari." This suggests a push for a more unified, team-first approach.
• Championship Goals: Despite the setbacks, Elkann stressed that securing second place in the Constructors' Championship is still a priority and "isn't impossible."

Between the lines:

Elkann's comments, especially coming after a disastrous race, suggest a deep-seated frustration with the team's overall performance and perceived distractions. His choice of words implies that he believes individual ambitions or external engagements are detracting from the primary goal: winning for Ferrari. The inclusion of Hamilton in this broad statement, even before his arrival, signals that no driver, regardless of stature, will be exempt from the team-first mandate. This is a clear directive from the very top, setting a serious tone for the coming seasons.

What's next:

Ferrari will need to quickly regroup and demonstrate a more focused, unified effort in the remaining races to secure their Constructors' Championship standing. Elkann's clear message indicates that a culture shift towards unwavering dedication to the team's success is expected, and all drivers, including the incoming Lewis Hamilton, will be held to this standard. The effectiveness of this direct approach will be closely watched as Ferrari aims to rebuild its championship ambitions.