Ahead of the Las Vegas GP, Lewis Hamilton returned to comment on John Elkann’s words, explaining that his concentration remains and he is not losing sight of the goal.
Following the Brazilian GP, which sadly ended for Ferrari with a double retirement, Chairman John Elkann had added fuel to the fire. During the presentation of the partnership between Stellantis (of which he is executive chairman) and Milano Cortina 2026, Elkann had stated that “It’s important that the drivers focus on driving and speak less. The car has improved, the rest was not up to par.”
His words had contributed to increasing tensions within the Scuderia, generating a rapid, diplomatic reaction from Hamilton and Leclerc, who promptly reiterated their personal commitment on social media, seeking to strengthen the team spirit once again.
Today, on the eve of the Las Vegas GP, Hamilton was questioned on the matter again by the media, who asked him if it was appropriate to demand more focus in driving from him and Leclerc. “Not really,” the seven-time World Champion replied, as reported by the BBC. “I wake up thinking about it, I go to sleep thinking about it, and I sleep thinking about it. If anything, I have to focus on being able to switch off more.” .
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“This has been the most demanding and challenging year I’ve had. I’ve been at the factory more than ever,” Hamilton continues, who nonetheless understood Elkann’s comments. “I know what his intentions are. We speak several times a week, and we did so even after the last weekend. It’s about uniting the team, and we are united. The passion is really strong, but I like it: I could never criticize someone who has such passion.”
“I support the team and myself 100%,” concludes the number 44, enamored with wearing the Ferrari Red despite the season being below expectations. “I still have to pinch myself to remember that I get to drive a Ferrari and represent all those fantastic people you don’t see because they are at the factory. I joined the team knowing full well that it takes time to change direction.”
“I know when we get things right it’s going to be amazing. I can’t wait to see what you will write at that point. I know for a fact that it’s going to happen, and I’m not losing sight of the goal, even with all the difficult days we’ve had”.
Photos: Scuderia Ferrari Multimedia
