Ferrari Chairman Urges Drivers to Focus on Racing After Disappointing Brazilian Grand Prix
Ferrari’s disappointing performance at the Brazilian Grand Prix has prompted Chairman John Elkann to call on drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc to concentrate on driving and minimize their comments. Elkann cited the team’s success in the World Endurance Championship, where they won the 2025 title, as an example of what can be achieved when the team works cohesively.
At the Brazilian Grand Prix, both Ferrari drivers failed to finish the race due to separate incidents. Charles Leclerc retired on lap 6 after a collision with Oscar Piastri and Andrea Kimi Antonelli, while Lewis Hamilton retired on lap 39 due to damage sustained from incidents with Carlos Sainz and Franco Colapinto. The double DNF allowed Mercedes and Red Bull to overtake Ferrari in the constructors’ championship, dropping them to fourth place.
Elkann expressed his disappointment with the team’s recent performance, stating that Ferrari wins when everyone works together. He emphasized the importance of the drivers focusing on their driving and minimizing their comments, particularly with crucial races ahead. Elkann noted that the team’s mechanics and engineers are performing well, but the rest of the team needs to improve.
Lewis Hamilton, who has had a challenging season with Ferrari, described the experience as a “nightmare.” The seven-time F1 champion has gone 21 races without a podium finish and expressed his frustration with the team’s performance. Hamilton had hoped to help Ferrari secure second place in the constructors’ championship but acknowledged that the team’s chances are dwindling.
The Brazilian Grand Prix was a significant setback for Ferrari, and the team will need to regroup and refocus to improve their performance in the remaining races. With Elkann’s urging, the drivers will need to put their disappointment behind them and work together to achieve better results. The team’s cohesion and determination will be crucial in their pursuit of a stronger finish to the season.