Ferrari: Internal Criticism and the Weight of the Title Drought
The recent statement by John Elkann, Ferrari chairman, addressed to his drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, following the São Paulo Grand Prix, has caused a great stir in the Formula 1 world. This episode, which followed a disappointing weekend for the team with a double retirement, highlights the complicated situation that the Italian team is going through.
Elkann, in his statements, openly criticized his drivers, suggesting they should focus more on driving and less on talking. This comment comes at a time when Ferrari hasn’t achieved a drivers’ championship since 2007 nor a constructors’ championship since 2008.
The comparison with the team’s success in the World Endurance Championship (WEC), where Ferrari achieved a victory, further highlighted the contrast between both disciplines. The president of Ferrari, apparently, sought to stimulate the team, but his words were interpreted as a lack of self-criticism and a sign of internal pressure.
The drivers’ reaction was immediate. Both Leclerc and Hamilton used social media to express their positions. Leclerc emphasized the need for “unity” at Ferrari, while Hamilton reaffirmed his support for the team and himself.
Elkann’s statement raises questions about the team’s current situation. Could the drivers’ criticisms be considered as disobedience? Is Ferrari in an acceptable situation? Does Elkann understand the differences between building a successful Formula 1 program and a WEC one?
The lack of competitiveness has led Ferrari to point fingers. Elkann’s criticism seems to focus on the drivers, leaving engineers and mechanics aside. In addition, there has been speculation about a possible tension with the team boss, Frédéric Vasseur, despite the fact that the latter recently renewed his contract.
The mention of the quick pit stops, recognized by a DHL award, is a plus for Ferrari. However, highlighting this achievement in a season without victories is somewhat contradictory.
Elkann also mentioned the improvement of the car, which has generated doubts. While teams like Red Bull and Mercedes have achieved victories, Ferrari has not had the same success. The team’s performance has fluctuated in each race, and they have had difficulties with technical aspects.Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton sit fifth and sixth, respectively, in this year’s drivers’ championship.The situation of the drivers is evident. Leclerc and Hamilton have expressed their frustration with the team’s performance in 2025. The Italian media suggests that Leclerc has been more critical than ever. The lack of progress and unfulfilled high expectations have generated rumors about Leclerc’s possible departure.
Ferrari’s history in F1 is full of critical moments. The case of Alain Prost in 1991, fired for criticizing the car, is an example of the team’s internal culture. The pressure and expectations at Ferrari are high, and the lack of results tests everyone’s patience.
Hamilton, who joined Ferrari with high expectations, has yet to achieve the desired results. His comments on the car’s deficiencies and his adaptation to the team have been met with mixed reactions. Hamilton’s experience and knowledge of the sport have not been enough to improve the situation.
Elkann also referred to the success in the WEC, but it is important to note the differences between both competitions. The “balance of performance” system in the WEC can favor teams like Ferrari.
In conclusion, Elkann’s statement reflects the pressure Ferrari is facing and its difficulty in consistently building a winning team. The team, despite its prestige and talent, has failed to match the success of its rivals in recent years.
