Story perspectives

Hamilton and Leclerc Respond to Ferrari's Elkann Criticism

11/22/2025

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Hamilton and Leclerc Respond

Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc addressed criticism from Ferrari chairman John Elkann regarding their performances this season.
They said Elkann's comments were meant to be constructive.
Hamilton said he maintains a strong relationship with Elkann.
Leclerc pledged to improve and help Ferrari regain its competitive edge.
Hamilton reflected on the difficulties of his debut season with Ferrari, acknowledging the need for patience and resilience.

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Hamilton Struggles in Qualifying

Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari driver, qualified last on Las Vegas Grand Prix grid due to wet conditions that prevented tire temperature and caused understeer.
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari teammate, qualified ninth, underscoring the performance gap.
Hamilton called his Ferrari debut season the hardest year, lamenting that he could not capitalize on a promising practice session.
He said recovering from 20th place would be difficult, calling the conditions "as bad as it gets".

History

Historical Context

In 1980, Ferrari struggled in Formula 1, finishing fourth in the Constructors' Championship with just 27 points, marking their first winless season since 1973. Under Chairman Enzo Ferrari, drivers like Gilles Villeneuve faced performance challenges. Today, Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc confront similar pressures from current chairman John Elkann, as they aim to restore Ferrari's legacy of excellence in the sport.

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Hamilton and Leclerc Respond

Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc addressed criticism from Ferrari chairman John Elkann regarding their performances this season.
They said Elkann's comments were meant to be constructive.
Hamilton said he maintains a strong relationship with Elkann.
Leclerc pledged to improve and help Ferrari regain its competitive edge.
Hamilton reflected on the difficulties of his debut season with Ferrari, acknowledging the need for patience and resilience.

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