Minardi Slams Ferrari Chairman Elkann Over Public Driver Criticism
Former F1 team owner Gian Carlo Minardi has publicly criticized Ferrari executive John Elkann's recent comments about his own drivers, Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, emphasizing that a leader should conduct criticism internally, not externally. Minardi's remarks highlight concerns over team morale and leadership style within Ferrari, especially as the team navigates performance challenges and anticipates Hamilton's arrival. This controversy also sparked defenses of the drivers from other F1 pundits, who argue that the car's performance is the real issue.
Former F1 team owner Gian Carlo Minardi has sharply criticized Ferrari executive John Elkann's public comments regarding his own team's drivers, Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton. Minardi emphasized the importance of internal criticism rather than external, particularly for a team leader.
Why it matters:
Ferrari, a team with an unparalleled legacy in Formula 1, is under intense scrutiny. Public criticism from its chairman, especially directed at star drivers like Leclerc and the incoming Hamilton, can impact team morale, driver confidence, and the team's public image. Minardi's intervention highlights a fundamental principle of leadership within high-pressure sports environments.
The details:
- Elkann's Comments: Following a double DNF at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, Ferrari chairman John Elkann reportedly stated, "We have drivers who need to focus on driving and talk less. We still have important races ahead, and securing second place in the Constructors’ Championship isn’t impossible."
- Minardi's Rebuttal: Gian Carlo Minardi, the former boss of the Minardi F1 team, responded on the Pit Talk podcast, asserting, "A team president must be a good family man. Criticism is made internally, never externally." He reiterated, "We need management like a family man, not like a court. We need to be less critical externally and much more critical internally."
- Pundit Defense: Several figures in the F1 paddock have since defended the drivers. Former F1 driver Karun Chandhok commented on X, suggesting the car's performance, not the drivers, is Ferrari's core issue. He stated, "If the Ferrari was as good as the McLaren this year, then I truly believe that Charles & Lewis would have been title contenders, fighting for race wins. The root of Ferrari’s problem is that the car hasn’t been fast enough this year."
The big picture:
This incident underscores the ongoing pressure within Ferrari to return to championship-winning form. While Elkann's comments might have been intended to motivate, the backlash from within the F1 community suggests a different approach might be more beneficial. The dynamic between leadership, drivers, and external perception is crucial for a team's success, especially when attracting and retaining top talent like Lewis Hamilton for the 2025 season.
What's next:
Ferrari's management will need to carefully navigate public relations and internal team dynamics as they continue their push to improve performance. The focus will likely shift to a more unified front as the team gears up for the new regulations in 2026 and the highly anticipated arrival of Hamilton. Maintaining team harmony and directing criticism constructively will be key to their success.