Ferrari Turmoil Explained After Brazil GP Double-DNF

Former F1 driver Jenson Button and commentator David Croft have dissected the current situation at Ferrari following their tumultuous 2025 Formula 1 season, which saw a disastrous double-DNF at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix.

Why it matters:

Ferrari's recent performance slump, capped by a double retirement in Brazil, has intensified scrutiny on the team. Losing ground in the Constructors' Championship not only impacts their standing but also fuels internal and external pressure, potentially affecting driver morale and team cohesion as they navigate a critical period.

The Details:

• Brazil GP Disaster: Both Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton retired from the 71-lap race, causing Ferrari to drop from P2 to P4 in the Constructors' Championship, now 36 points behind Mercedes.
• Elkann's Controversial Comments: Ferrari chairman John Elkann stated that Ferrari has "drivers who need to focus on driving and talk less." These comments sparked backlash and raised questions about the team's internal dynamics.
• Button's Analysis: Jenson Button noted the significant points loss and championship shift. He believes Ferrari still has a chance to recover to P2 if they have a few good results, emphasizing that they possess two of the best drivers in the world.
• Croft's Interpretation: David Croft suggested Elkann's remarks might have been a subtle message to Lewis Hamilton, urging him to focus on driving rather than commenting on team operations. Croft speculates that such comments might not sit well with a team accustomed to its own structured way of doing things.
• Pressure on Ferrari: Button highlighted the immense pressure on Ferrari, not just from within the F1 world but from the entirety of Italy, which expects the Scuderia to win. This external pressure often translates into internal stress for the entire team.
• Importance of Communication: Button stressed that direct communication between the chairman and the drivers is crucial. He suggested Elkann should personally address any concerns with the drivers, leveraging their extensive experience with top teams.

Between the lines:

Elkann's public criticism, while perhaps intended to motivate, has seemingly exacerbated existing tensions. For a team with Ferrari's legacy and public profile, internal discord can be particularly damaging. Both Button and Croft underscore the fragile balance between internal pressure and external expectations, and how easily this can unravel without effective leadership and communication.

What's next:

The team's ability to rebound will depend heavily on resolving these internal issues and translating their drivers' talent into consistent points. The atmosphere within the team, particularly following Elkann's remarks, will be critical in determining their performance in the remainder of the season. Effective communication and a unified approach will be essential if Ferrari hopes to regain its position in the Constructors' Championship and mitigate further internal turmoil.