Former Ferrari driver criticizes Lewis Hamilton and praises McLaren decisions in F1 Monza GP. Jean Alesi criticized Lewis Hamilton’s approach at the 2025 Italian GP.

F1 | “Hamilton did not act correctly”: Jean Alesi critiques Ferrari star

Jean Alesi has criticized Lewis Hamilton and applauded McLaren, offering two contrasting perspectives after Monza that seemingly “condemn” the seven-time Ferrari world champion.

The Italian Grand Prix delivered excitement not only on the track but also off it, with incidents that sparked debate among fans and experts alike. On one side, Ferrari did not receive any support from Lewis Hamilton for Charles Leclerc in qualifying, despite the seven-time world champion stating on Thursday that he was ready to assist his teammate. On the other hand, at McLaren, the team ordered Oscar Piastri to give back the position to Lando Norris, lost due to a pit-stop issue.

Jean Alesi’s opinion: “Hamilton could have done more”

In his regular column for Corriere della Sera, Jean Alesi, the beloved former Ferrari driver, gave a clear judgment on the British champion’s behavior: “I didn’t like Hamilton’s attitude. He could, and perhaps should, have helped Leclerc on Saturday during qualifying. Everyone expected such behavior from Lewis, without even being asked, considering his words, the course of the season, and his first meeting with Italian fans.”

Jean Alesi also highlighted that, although a better grid position probably would not have changed the race outcome for Ferrari, the gesture would have held symbolic value for the Maranello team’s fans.

McLaren and the controversial team order

The former driver instead praised McLaren’s management, which requested that Oscar Piastri return the position to Lando Norris. “Many ask me if, as a driver fighting for the championship, I would have given the position back to Lando Norris as Oscar Piastri did on Sunday. My answer: yes, I would have, as part of a team—McLaren—that instills its winning culture in every member,” explained Alesi.

On Sunday, Jean Alesi also thrilled fans by driving the legendary Ferrari 412 T2, the car he used to win the 1995 Canadian Grand Prix, the only victory of his Formula 1 career. His return to the cockpit ignited the passion of the crowd at the Temple of Speed, marking a special weekend not only for modern F1 but also for the historical legacy of the Prancing Horse.