Ferrari: Criticism of Hamilton and Leclerc, are the drivers to blame?

Ferrari on the Tightrope: Criticism and Challenges in Formula 1

John Elkann, Ferrari’s president, recent statement addressed to his drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, after the São Paulo Grand Prix, has sparked an intense debate. His words, which criticized the drivers’ performance, contrast with the team’s victory in the World Endurance Championship (WEC). This situation reflects the persistent title drought that has affected Ferrari in Formula 1 for 17 years. Elkann expressed his disappointment with the performance in Brazil, highlighting the good work of the mechanics and the improvement of the car, but pointing out that “the rest is not up to par.” In addition, he suggested that the drivers should “focus on driving and talking less.” These statements have been interpreted as a lack of self-criticism and a sign of internal pressure within the team.

“When Ferrari is a team, we win… Winning as a constructor and as drivers [in WEC] is a beautiful demonstration that when Ferrari is united, when everyone is together, you can achieve great things.”

John Elkann, President of Ferrari

The drivers’ response was immediate. Leclerc emphasized the need for “unity” to achieve success, while Hamilton reaffirmed his support for the team and himself. These reactions raise questions about the internal dynamics and whether Elkann’s criticisms could affect team morale and collaboration between the drivers. Elkann’s focus on the mechanics and car improvement, not to mention the strategic errors and the overall performance of the team, has been the subject of criticism. The reference to the mechanics and their fast pit stops, recognized with the DHL award, seems like an attempt to divert attention from the deeper problems facing Ferrari. The lack of progress in the car’s development has been evident, especially in comparison to teams like Red Bull and Mercedes. Ferrari has failed to implement significant improvements, which has affected the drivers’ performance and their ability to compete for victories.

The situation of Charles Leclerc, who has expressed his frustration with the lack of competitiveness, is particularly worrying. The driver, considered a promising talent, could consider leaving Ferrari if the team fails to improve its performance. Leclerc’s departure would be a hard blow for Ferrari and a reflection of its inability to provide a winning car. Lewis Hamilton’s experience at Ferrari has also generated expectations. However, his adaptation to the team has not been smooth. Hamilton has shared his observations on the team’s deficiencies, but some sources suggest that his comments have not been well received internally. The lack of synergy between Hamilton and Ferrari raises doubts about the driver’s future in the team. The contrast between success in the WEC and the problems in F1 is also significant. The “performance balance” system in the WEC, designed to help new participants, suggests that the conditions for winning are not the same in both competitions. Ferrari needs to address the fundamental problems in F1 to compete at the highest level. In summary, the situation at Ferrari reflects a series of challenges that go beyond the performance of the drivers. The lack of progress in car development, internal management, and the pressure to obtain results are key factors that must be addressed for Ferrari to once again be a competitive team and achieve success in Formula 1.