Was Ferrari Chairman Too Harsh on Hamilton & Leclerc?

Was Ferrari Chairman John Elkann Fair in Criticising Hamilton & Leclerc?

Ferrari chairman John Elkann has drawn criticism after urging Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc to “talk less and focus on driving” following another frustrating F1 outing. His remarks came swiftly after the Sao Paulo GP, where Hamilton called Ferrari’s recent form a “nightmare.”

While Elkann praised the mechanics and even claimed progress from the engineers, statistics tell a different story. Ferrari are further off the pace than in the first half of the season, despite supposed upgrades.

Leclerc Shining Despite Struggles

Leclerc, in particular, has been one of Ferrari’s top performers. He’s remained loyal and consistent, even as he voices frustrations about the car’s lack of competitiveness—an opinion few would argue with.

Hamilton’s emotional post-race comments are nothing new, but they often reflect his high expectations. Despite recent dips, his performances have improved over the season. Both drivers are seen as key assets, and Elkann’s tone has raised eyebrows in the paddock.

Is Driver Skill Now the Key Differentiator in F1?

With car performance across the grid tighter than ever, driver ability is arguably a bigger differentiator than in past years. Yet modern tools like telemetry allow less instinctive drivers to close the gap during practice sessions.

What makes 2025 unique is the sheer depth of talent: from legends like Hamilton, Alonso, and Verstappen, to rising stars like Norris, Piastri, and Leclerc.

However, with sweeping regulation changes coming in 2026, any balance achieved could quickly evaporate—just as it did in 2022 with Red Bull’s domination.

Should F1 Rookies Be Given More Testing Time?

Just 0.528 seconds separated the top 10 on the grid for the Sao Paulo Grand Prix

Despite current testing restrictions, rookies like Oliver Bearman, Kimi Antonelli, and Isack Hadjar have settled impressively. Teams are now making greater use of Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) and Historic Cars (THC) to prep young talent.

Regulations also require each team to run rookies in at least two FP1 sessions, offering some experience under race weekend conditions.

Will Aston Martin Challenge with Newey in 2026?

The F1 world is watching Aston Martin closely as legendary designer Adrian Newey leads the design of their 2026 challenger. With Honda supplying engines and Fernando Alonso behind the wheel, expectations are high.

Yet stability is lacking. Recent years have seen constant senior management turnover, with Newey, Andy Cowell (CEO), and Enrico Cardile (CTO) all new to their posts. Historically, success in F1 comes from long-term cohesion, something Aston Martin still needs to establish.

Still, if anyone can fast-track a winning car, it’s Newey.

Final Races to Decide F1 2025 Champion

With three rounds remaining—Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi—Lando Norris leads Oscar Piastri by 24 points. The title will be decided in one of the tightest seasons in years.

Whether Ferrari can recover, Aston Martin can rise, or the McLaren duo implode under pressure, F1 2025 is heading for a thrilling finale.