Ferrari Chairman John Elkann has sparked major controversy across the Formula 1 world after openly criticizing Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, stating that drivers should “focus more on driving and talk less” following Ferrari’s disappointing performance at the Brazilian Grand Prix.
The remarks came shortly after Ferrari’s poor showing at Interlagos, where both drivers struggled with tire degradation, setup issues, and questionable team strategy, leaving the Scuderia far behind rivals like Red Bull and Mercedes in race pace.
Elkann’s statement immediately drew attention not only for its blunt tone but also for being directed at two of the most high-profile names in Formula 1—Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, and Leclerc, Ferrari’s long-time golden prospect.
According to insiders, the Ferrari chairman was frustrated by what he saw as excessive public commentary from the drivers about the team’s performance, believing that focus should remain on improving results rather than discussing internal issues with the media.
However, the reaction from Hamilton and Leclerc was swift and powerful. Both drivers reportedly took offense at the implication that their professionalism or dedication was lacking, responding with remarks that emphasized teamwork, respect, and constructive communication.
Hamilton, who is set to join Ferrari in 2026, was said to have been particularly taken aback by Elkann’s criticism, viewing it as an unnecessary attack that could damage the team’s morale during a critical stage of the season.
He later emphasized that open dialogue between drivers and engineers is essential for progress, suggesting that silencing honest feedback would be counterproductive to achieving Ferrari’s goal of returning to championship-winning form.
Leclerc, meanwhile, was more measured but firm, stating that communication has always been one of Ferrari’s strengths, and that transparency between team and driver should never be mistaken for complaining or distraction.
Their responses quickly went viral, with many fans and analysts praising both drivers for their maturity and defending their right to voice concerns about performance issues that directly impact results on the track.
Social media erupted with hashtags supporting the drivers, as fans accused Ferrari’s leadership of being out of touch with modern Formula 1, where teamwork, data analysis, and feedback loops are crucial to competitiveness.
The controversy also reignited debates about Ferrari’s internal structure, with some suggesting that the team’s top executives often deflect blame onto drivers instead of addressing deeper strategic and operational shortcomings.
Observers noted that this latest episode reflected a recurring theme within Ferrari’s management over the years—a tendency to publicly criticize personnel after failures rather than fostering a united front to solve problems internally.
Former drivers and team insiders weighed in, recalling similar moments from Ferrari’s history when management disputes spilled into the media, often leading to instability and underperformance in subsequent races.
Hamilton’s supporters were particularly vocal, warning that such public criticism could make his upcoming transition to Ferrari more difficult, potentially creating friction before he even begins his tenure with the Italian outfit.
Meanwhile, Leclerc’s fans expressed sympathy, noting that he has repeatedly carried the weight of Ferrari’s expectations through years of strategic blunders and inconsistent car performance, often without receiving the recognition he deserves.
In the days following the incident, reports suggested that private discussions were held between Elkann, team principal Frédéric Vasseur, and both drivers in an attempt to smooth tensions and restore internal harmony.
Sources close to the team described the meeting as “constructive,” though some insiders questioned whether Elkann’s comments may have already done lasting damage to Ferrari’s image and driver relationships.
Analysts believe that Elkann’s frustration stems from Ferrari’s long-standing inability to consistently challenge for titles despite heavy investment, leading to mounting pressure from shareholders and fans alike.
Yet, critics argue that pointing fingers at drivers is shortsighted, given that Ferrari’s recurring issues with tire wear, race strategy, and pit stop execution remain key factors behind their lack of success in recent seasons.
As the story continues to unfold, many in the paddock see this as a defining moment for Ferrari’s culture—whether the team can move past public disputes and focus on rebuilding unity heading into the next championship campaign.
Ultimately, Hamilton and Leclerc’s dignified responses have earned them widespread admiration, transforming what began as a harsh rebuke into a powerful reminder of leadership, communication, and mutual respect in modern Formula 1.
