F1: Elkann’s sharpened message; Ferrari’s patience is running thin with Hamilton

Ferrari chairman John Elkann has made remarks that shed light on the current atmosphere within the team and the expectations placed on its drivers. According to reports in the Italian media, the primary target of these statements is none other than Lewis Hamilton.

Elkann began by praising Ferrari’s WEC lineup, highlighting the double championship triumph in Bahrain, where the team clinched both the drivers’ and manufacturers’ titles. The endurance program, he said, remains a major source of pride for the company. But the tone shifted dramatically when the discussion turned to Formula 1.

Speaking to Sky, Elkann described the São Paulo Grand Prix as “a huge disappointment,” emphasizing that despite noticeable improvements, the team still suffers from persistent structural issues. While applauding the mechanics for their strong pit-stop performance and acknowledging the progress of the car, he pointed toward the shortcomings of the drivers: “Our drivers talk too much and don’t focus enough on their driving. Finishing second in the constructors’ championship is still possible, but only if they start prioritizing the team rather than themselves.”

According to Corriere della Sera, these criticisms are directed primarily at seven-time world champion Hamilton, who joined Ferrari amid great expectations yet has failed to secure a single podium finish this season. His public critiques of both the team and the FIA have reportedly created discomfort within Ferrari’s upper management.

Sources who spoke to the newspaper claim that Elkann expects full concentration from every member of the team for the remainder of the season. In particular, he wants Hamilton to “prove through performance why he was brought to Ferrari.” It appears clear that, from the management’s perspective, actions on the track now matter far more than words off it.