Ferrari Drivers Respond After Chairman Calls for Focus
SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL - november 20, 2023 – Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc have both publicly affirmed their commitment to Ferrari following critical remarks from team chairman John Elkann. Elkann recently stated that both drivers need to “talk less” and “focus” on their performance as the team struggles through a winless Formula 1 season.
The statements come after a particularly challenging Brazilian Grand Prix where neither Ferrari driver reached the finish line.Hamilton sustained damage on the opening lap following contact with Carlos Sainz, and later in the race with Franco Colapinto, ultimately forcing Ferrari to retire the car mid-race due to extensive damage.
On Monday evening, Hamilton took to social media, posting: “I back my team. I back myself. I will not give up. Not now, not then, not ever. Thank you, Brazil, always.”
Teammate Charles Leclerc was also eliminated from the race early after being caught in an incident involving Oscar Piastri and Kimi Antonelli. Leclerc emphasized the need for team cohesion as Ferrari battles for second place in the Constructors’ championship during the final three races of the season.
“A very difficult weekend in São Paulo,” Leclerc stated. “Disappointing to come back home with nearly no points at all for the team in what is a critical moment of the season to fight for the 2nd place in the constructors’ championship. It’s uphill from now and it’s clear that only unity can help us turn that situation around in the last 3 races. We’ll give it all, as always.”
Ferrari has yet to secure a race win this year,and the disappointing results in Brazil have intensified scrutiny on the team’s performance and driver contributions.
