Ferrari Chairman Urges Hamilton, Leclerc to 'Focus on Driving' After Brazil GP Debacle

Ferrari chairman John Elkann has publicly called on his star drivers, Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, to "talk less and focus on driving" following a dismal Sao Paulo Grand Prix. Both drivers retired from the race due to separate incidents, extending Ferrari's frustrating season as they slip further in the Constructors' Championship.

Why it matters:

Ferrari, a team steeped in F1 history and aspiring for championship glory, is facing mounting pressure. The chairman's unusual direct criticism of his drivers underscores the team's internal frustration and the urgent need for improved on-track performance. This public statement from the top signifies a potential shift in how the team manages its high-profile talent and their focus during a challenging period.

The details:

• Sao Paulo GP Disaster: Both Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc failed to finish the race in Brazil. Leclerc crashed on the formation lap, and Hamilton was involved in a collision shortly after the start.
• Championship Slide: Ferrari has fallen to fourth in the Constructors' Championship. This is a significant setback for a team that began the season with aspirations of challenging for the title.
• Hamilton's Performance: Since joining Ferrari at the start of the year, Hamilton has yet to secure a podium finish and has generally lagged behind Leclerc in pace, especially in Qualifying, where he trails 16-5 in head-to-head battles.
• Chairman's Remarks: Speaking at an Italian Olympic Committee event, John Elkann praised the team's mechanics and engineers for improving the car and their pit stop performances. However, he sharply criticized the drivers:
  • "If we look at the rest, it's not up to standard."
  • "We have drivers who need to focus more and talk less, because we still have important races to come, and finishing second in the constructors isn't impossible."

The big picture:

This season has been a stark reminder of the challenges Ferrari faces in returning to championship contention. Despite investments in driver talent like Hamilton and the continuous development of their car and pit crew, on-track results remain inconsistent. The chairman's remarks highlight a perceived lack of focus from the drivers, suggesting that the team believes mental fortitude and concentration are as crucial as raw speed in achieving their objectives.

What's next:

With important races remaining in the season, all eyes will be on how Hamilton and Leclerc respond to Elkann's strong message. The team still hopes to recover ground and secure a higher position in the Constructors' Championship, aiming for at least second. The coming races will be a critical test of the drivers' resolve and their ability to translate the chairman's call for focus into improved performance and results on the track.