Ferrari official intervenes during Leclerc media session over persistent John Elkann queries. John Elkann’s criticism of Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton sparks media storm at Las Vegas GP.

The ongoing scrutiny surrounding Ferrari chairman John Elkann’s remarks towards Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton has dominated paddock conversations at the 2025 Las Vegas Grand Prix. After the Italian team suffered a rare double DNF at the Brazilian Grand Prix, Elkann reportedly urged his drivers to “talk less” and concentrate more on their performance on track. The comments came amid a particularly challenging first season for Hamilton in red, with the seven-time world champion admitting he had been struggling to adapt and describing 2025 as a “living nightmare,” having not yet secured a podium since joining Ferrari.

While Ferrari insist that John Elkann’s intervention was intended to motivate the team to challenge for second place in the constructors’ championship, the message was interpreted differently by many in the paddock and among fans. Numerous observers have debated whether the chairman’s criticism was constructive or simply pointed, with some outspoken fans even suggesting that John Elkann step down from his role.

Leclerc and Hamilton manage the media storm at Las Vegas

Despite the controversy, both Leclerc and Hamilton downplayed the drama during the Las Vegas Grand Prix, insisting there was no ill intent in John Elkann’s words. Nevertheless, questions continued to pour in from the media, eager to uncover the real implications of the chairman’s comments.

Ferrari’s PR team actively managed the situation, instructing Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton to maintain a composed front amid repeated inquiries about John Elkann. During Charles Leclerc’s press conference, the barrage of questions about the chairman became so persistent that a Ferrari staff member intervened, telling journalists to focus on the Las Vegas race itself rather than Elkann’s statements.

Journalist Andrew Benson later recounted the scenario on the Chequered Flag podcast, describing the press conference as “a typical Ferrari situation” where nearly every question revolved around a single topic. Benson highlighted that halfway through Charles Leclerc’s session, a Ferrari PR representative asked if there were any questions specifically about the Las Vegas GP, attempting to steer the discussion back to the race. Benson noted that Lewis Hamilton’s comments were particularly revealing, emphasizing the Briton’s focus on resilience despite the difficulties of the season. Hamilton reportedly explained that he constantly thinks about his performance and the challenges he faces, indicating that his focus is on managing the intense mental and physical demands of the 2025 campaign rather than simply following John Elkann’s advice.

Leclerc’s future at Ferrari remains uncertain

Questions about Charles Leclerc’s long-term future at Ferrari have intensified following John Elkann’s public criticism. The chairman had reportedly contacted Charles Leclerc ahead of the Las Vegas GP to outline what he planned to convey during the media sessions, and while the Monegasque driver maintains that the comments were meant to be constructive, speculation persists that the remarks could influence his decisions moving forward.

Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher has suggested that Charles Leclerc should consider a “Plan B” in case Ferrari fails to make the necessary progress. Rumours have been circulating that the 28-year-old driver is increasingly frustrated with the team’s inability to challenge for a championship, and he reportedly has an exit clause in his contract for 2026 that could facilitate a departure if he chooses.

Reports indicate that Aston Martin has been in contact with Charles Leclerc’s management on multiple occasions, exploring the possibility of signing him for 2027. With Fernando Alonso’s impending retirement, the Silverstone-based team sees an opportunity to strengthen their lineup with a top-tier driver. The Monegasque remains a central figure in these discussions, with his potential move being closely watched by fans and industry insiders alike.

As the Las Vegas weekend unfolds, the focus remains on how Ferrari will respond on track and whether Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton can navigate both the competitive and political pressures within the team. The ongoing narrative surrounding Elkann’s remarks has added another layer of intrigue to Ferrari’s 2025 season, and the implications for the future of Maranello’s driver lineup could become clearer in the months ahead.