Ferrari: Elkann criticizes Hamilton and Leclerc after Brazilian GP, ¿Error?

Ferrari’s President Criticizes His Drivers: A Strategic Error?

The recent criticism from Ferrari president John Elkann towards Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, following the São Paulo Grand Prix, has generated controversy in the Formula 1 world. This episode, which followed a disappointing weekend for the team, has highlighted the difficulties Ferrari faces in its quest for a title, a drought that has already lasted 17 years. Elkann, in his statements, highlighted the performance of the mechanics and the improvement of the car, but directed his criticism towards the drivers, suggesting that they should focus more on driving and less on talking. These words, interpreted by some as an attempt to motivate the team, have been received with skepticism by others.

“Brazil was a big disappointment. If we look at the Formula 1 championship, we can say that, on the one hand, we have our mechanics, who are actually winning the championship with their performance and everything they have done in the pit stops. If we look at our engineers, there is no doubt that the car has improved. If we look at the rest, it is not up to par. We certainly have drivers for whom it is important that they concentrate on driving and speak less, because we still have important races ahead and it is not impossible to get second place [in the constructors’ championship]”.

John Elkann, President of Ferrari

Following Elkann’s statements, both drivers responded on social media, emphasizing the need for unity and support for the team. These reactions have fueled speculation about Ferrari’s internal situation, raising questions about the future of the drivers and the team’s ability to achieve success. Elkann’s criticism has also highlighted the disparity between the Formula 1 team’s performance and the success of the team in the World Endurance Championship (WEC), where Ferrari achieved a significant victory. This comparison has generated debate about Elkann’s understanding of the specific dynamics of each discipline. The current situation at Ferrari is reminiscent of past times, where the lack of results has caused internal tensions and public criticism. The pressure on the drivers and the team is evident, and the need to improve performance is imperative.

The 2025 season has shown an irregular performance from Ferrari, with ups and downs in each race. Despite the efforts of the drivers, the team has not achieved significant progress compared to its competitors. The performance of Hamilton and Leclerc has been key to the team’s few achievements this season. Leclerc’s frustration is evident, and rumors about his possible departure from Ferrari have gained momentum. The team’s lack of competitiveness and the difficulty in adapting to the new regulations have generated uncertainty about the driver’s future and his relationship with Ferrari. Elkann’s criticism, instead of unifying the team, could generate more tensions. Ferrari’s history is full of examples of drivers who have been sidelined for expressing their opinions, and the current situation could follow a similar path. Hamilton’s arrival at Ferrari generated great expectations, but so far, the results have not been as expected. The driver has expressed his frustration with the car, and his adaptation to the team has been slower than anticipated. Elkann’s comparison with the WEC has also generated controversy. While victory in the WEC is a significant achievement, the competition conditions are different from those in Formula 1, which makes the comparison questionable. The current situation at Ferrari raises questions about the team’s future and its ability to compete at the highest level. The lack of titles since 2008 and the inability to consistently build a winning team are causes for concern for fans and the team.