The seven-time world champion addresses Ferrari president’s comments
Lewis Hamilton has responded to Ferrari President John Elkann’s recent comments, in which the Italian industrialist encouraged drivers to speak less and focus more on driving. The seven-time world champion joked but also reflected on the president’s message and his personal relationship with him.
Once again, Ferrari drivers face scrutiny almost every week. Charles Leclerc has already shared his thoughts, explaining that he agrees with John Elkann for a specific reason. Now Hamilton has clarified his position. While reaffirming his commitment, he also responded to the president with a light-hearted comment. Here’s what he told the media ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
Hamilton: “We speak several times a week. If there’s something to focus on, it’s…”
“I speak with John every week, and we have an incredible relationship. I know his intentions. We speak sometimes several times a week, so we’ve been in contact multiple times since last week. The passion hasn’t disappeared from our team; we have a big challenge ahead, but we want to finish the season positively.”
Referring to John Elkann’s advice to talk less, Lewis Hamilton joked: “I always hope to do fewer interviews.”
He then spoke about the work the team continues to do despite the season not always delivering outstanding results. Lewis Hamilton is well aware that Ferrari is constantly in the spotlight, often with negative media attention. “No, seriously, I think all of us have to do our part. There’s so much passion in this team, in every single person. I’m extremely grateful for the extraordinary efforts every individual in the factory continues to make week after week. And knowing that the team is Ferrari, it always receives a lot of attention, and not always in a positive way.”
Clarifying the Instagram post
Finally, Lewis Hamilton clarified the context of his Instagram post, which read: “I support my team. I support myself. I will not give up. Not now, not then, not ever.” Many interpreted it as a direct response to the president, but Lewis Hamilton explained that wasn’t the case. He emphasized the need to balance focus on Ferrari with the ability to step back and recharge mentally. “It wasn’t a reaction. I hadn’t even seen it, I posted it while flying. It was only when I got home that I heard people talking about it, so it wasn’t a response. This goes back to the weekend. I wake up thinking about Ferrari, go to sleep thinking about Ferrari, and even think about it in my sleep. So, if there’s one thing I need to focus on, it’s my ability to switch off more. This year has been very challenging. Probably the most demanding year I’ve ever had. I support this team 100%. I know that once everything is sorted, it will be fantastic, and I can’t wait for that moment because it will be amazing to see what you write afterward, and I truly believe it will happen.” – the seven-time Formula 1 world champion concluded ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend.
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