Leclerc Responds to Ferrari Chairman's 'Clear Intention' Statement Amidst Team Struggles
Charles Leclerc has publicly addressed Ferrari chairman John Elkann's recent statement, which called for drivers to "talk less" after a dismal Brazilian GP. Leclerc confirmed Elkann's intentions were "clear and honest," emphasizing their long-standing relationship and shared ambition to return Ferrari to the top. The Monegasque driver underscored his full alignment with the chairman's push for improvement, prioritizing the positive intent behind the critical remarks amidst Ferrari's challenging season.
Charles Leclerc has publicly addressed Ferrari chairman John Elkann's recent extraordinary statement, insisting it was delivered with 'clear intentions'. This marks Leclerc's first direct comments on Elkann's remarks, which followed a disappointing double DNF for Ferrari at the Brazilian GP.
Why it matters:
Ferrari's chairman openly critiquing the team's F1 performance, particularly after a season of struggle, underscores the immense pressure on the Scuderia. Leclerc's measured response highlights the internal dynamics and the drivers' commitment to turnaround the team's fortunes, which is crucial for maintaining morale and focus amid public scrutiny.
The details:
- Following the Brazilian GP, John Elkann praised Ferrari's WEC title success and their F1 pit crew's likely fastest pit-stop award, but notably stated drivers needed to "talk less."
- Ferrari currently sits fourth in the constructors' standings, 36 points behind Mercedes and four points behind Red Bull, with no Grand Prix wins this season.
- Leclerc revealed Elkann spoke with him before the statement's public release, describing the chairman's intentions as "honest" and "very clear."
- Relationship with Elkann: Leclerc emphasized a long-standing, very good relationship with Elkann, describing him as an ambitious person who pushes for maximum results out of love for Ferrari.
- Alignment on Performance: Leclerc affirmed his alignment with Elkann's message, stating, "We need to do better, and that is clear for everyone." He reiterated his commitment to bringing Ferrari back to the top.
- Honesty and Feedback: Leclerc values Elkann's honesty, noting it's rare to find such direct feedback in F1. He stated Elkann is direct about performance issues, including his own.
- Intentions vs. Expression: While Leclerc could not comment on how Elkann's words were expressed publicly, he focused on the "positive intent" behind them, which he views as the most important aspect.
What's next:
Ferrari's immediate focus will be on the upcoming races to salvage as many points as possible and potentially challenge for a higher position in the constructors' championship. Leclerc's public endorsement of Elkann's message suggests a unified front, despite the chairman's critical tone. The team's ability to translate this shared ambition into improved on-track performance will be the true test in the seasons to come.