Ferrari targets Hamilton and Leclerc: Are there problems in Maranello?

Ferrari on the Tightrope: Criticism and Challenges in Formula 1

John Elkann, Ferrari’s president’s recent decision to openly criticize his drivers, Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, has sparked a whirlwind of controversy. This event, which occurred after the São Paulo Grand Prix, reflects the challenges the Italian team faces in its quest for the Formula 1 title, a drought that has already lasted 17 years. Elkann’s criticism came after a complicated weekend in Brazil, where both drivers suffered retirements. This contrast with Ferrari’s victory in the World Endurance Championship (WEC), where the team ended a 53-year wait, highlights the disparity between both categories.

“Brazil was a big disappointment,” Elkann stated. “Our mechanics are winning the championship with their performance. Our engineers have improved the car. But the rest is not up to par. It is important that the drivers focus on driving and speak less, as we have important races ahead and it is still possible to obtain second place in the constructors’ championship.”

John Elkann, President of Ferrari

Elkann’s statements suggest possible dissatisfaction with the performance of his drivers, urging them to focus more on driving and less on criticism. However, these words have generated debate, as they could be interpreted as a lack of support and understanding towards the difficulties the team is facing. Following Elkann’s statements, both drivers turned to social media. Leclerc emphasized the need for “unity” at Ferrari, while Hamilton reaffirmed his support for the team and himself. These actions raise questions about the team’s internal environment and the freedom of the drivers to express their opinions. The current situation at Ferrari raises several questions: Are the drivers challenging Elkann with their opinions? Is the current situation acceptable for Ferrari? Does Elkann understand the differences between building a successful program in Formula 1 and in WEC? Elkann’s statement, in essence, seems to dismiss the drivers’ complaints about the team’s lack of competitiveness. Ferrari’s history is marked by the habit of pointing fingers in unsuccessful seasons, and on this occasion, the criticism seems directed towards the drivers. Elkann’s reference to the efficiency of the mechanics in the pit stops, awarded with the DHL prize, contrasts with the lack of victories in the season. Highlighting this aspect in a moment of drought of triumphs could be interpreted as a strategy to divert attention from the deeper problems. The comment on the car’s improvement has also raised doubts. While Red Bull and Mercedes have achieved significant victories, Ferrari has not shown comparable progress. The lack of adaptation to technical conditions, such as ride height, has affected the team’s performance. The image of Ferrari drivers, Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, who occupy fifth and sixth place respectively in the drivers’ championship. The pilots’ frustration is evident. Leclerc, in particular, has expressed his dissatisfaction with the car’s performance. His comments suggest that the lack of progress could lead him to consider options outside of Ferrari if the team fails to be competitive under the new 2026 regulations. Hamilton’s situation is also relevant. Despite his love for Ferrari, the driver has not achieved the expected results. His notes on the team’s deficiencies have received mixed reactions, suggesting internal problems in the team’s management. Hamilton has expressed his disappointment with the car’s performance, describing the situation as a “nightmare.” The team’s problems go beyond the drivers and extend to the general lack of competitiveness. Ferrari’s success in the WEC, although impressive, should not be directly compared to Formula 1. The WEC’s “balance of performance” system favors new participants like Ferrari, suggesting that victory is based on specific conditions and not just the team’s drive. In conclusion, Ferrari’s situation in Formula 1 is complex. Elkann’s criticism of its drivers, the lack of results, and internal problems suggest that the team needs a profound transformation to regain its leading position in the sport.