Hamilton responds to Elkann’s criticism
Lewis Hamilton has said he may need to “unplug more”, responding with calm assurance after Ferrari chairman John Elkann publicly criticised the team’s drivers by telling them to “focus on driving and talk less” in the wake of a difficult weekend at the Brazilian Grand Prix, reports BritPanorama.
The seven-time world champion, 41, retired in São Paulo during a largely frustrating first season with Ferrari, where team-mate Charles Leclerc also failed to finish.
Ferrari currently sit fourth in the constructors’ standings after a campaign marked by inconsistency, prompting Elkann’s pointed message to his drivers. Prior to the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Hamilton suggested that his issue might be quite the opposite—being overly focused rather than distracted.
“I wake up thinking about it [driving], and I go to sleep thinking about it, and I think about it when I’m sleeping,” he said. “If anything, I have to focus on being able to unplug more.”
Hamilton acknowledged that 2025 has been a particularly demanding year for him. “It’s been the busiest year that I think I’ve had. I’ve been at the factory more than I think I was at any other factory before,” he noted.
He revealed that he had advanced notice of Elkann’s comments. The pair spoke by phone before the remarks were made public, and he insists he understands the intention behind them. “I know where John’s intentions are,” he stated. “We speak sometimes several times a week, so we have spoken several times since last week.”
Hamilton observed the importance of unity within the team, saying, “It’s all about bringing the team together and we are all really together. We are all deep in it. The passion just runs so deep.” He expressed appreciation for that passion, reaffirming his commitment to the team despite not having reached the podium this season, a rare drought in his otherwise successful career.
Currently sitting sixth in the drivers’ standings and trailing Leclerc by 76 points, Hamilton faces questions about his future at Ferrari. However, Hamilton is clear about his intentions, having signed a three-year deal and expressing unwavering belief in the team’s long-term trajectory. “There’s just been so much to do and so much to learn,” he reflected on his debut campaign with the Scuderia.
“It’s definitely tough when we’re all working for something and then you fall back,” he added. “It’s like we’re climbing up a mountain, then you arrive at the weekend and you kind of slip a few steps back or 10 steps back. You have to then get back up and try again the next time.”
Even amid setbacks, Hamilton remains optimistic, insisting that perseverance will eventually yield results. “I’ve backed this team 100 per cent and I back myself 100 per cent,” he declared. “I know that when we get things right, it’s going to be amazing, and I can’t wait for that moment because I’d love to see what you’re going to write after that.”
In a sport where the margin for error is razor-thin, Hamilton’s resolve might just be the beacon Ferrari need as they navigate this tumultuous season—a promise of better days that fans and team alike are keenly waiting to witness.
