Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc have been criticized by Ferrari’s top executive, which Formula 1 legend Damon Hill believes could have a demoralizing and undermining effect on the drivers. The criticism came after a disappointing Sao Paulo Grand Prix for Ferrari, where both cars had to retire due to damage. Meanwhile, Ferrari’s hypercar program celebrated success by winning both the manufacturers’ and drivers’ World Endurance Championship trophies on the same day.
During the championship celebration in Bahrain, executive chairman John Elkann emphasized the importance of unity within Ferrari for achieving results. While praising the efforts of the F1 team’s mechanics and engineers, Elkann also acknowledged that there were areas where improvements were needed.
Despite neither Hamilton nor Leclerc winning a Grand Prix this season, Hill pointed out that the team’s struggles go beyond the drivers. He expressed surprise at the public criticism and highlighted the complexities within a Formula 1 organization, suggesting that Ferrari had experienced inconsistent performance throughout the year.
Hill, the 1996 F1 champion with Williams, noted that while Elkann is entitled to his opinions as the head of the company paying Hamilton and Leclerc, making critical remarks publicly could have negative implications. He explained that public criticism could be demoralizing and undermining for the drivers, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive working relationship within the team.
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