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Hamilton defends dedication after Ferrari chairman's criticism
Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has dismissed suggestions he lacks focus, responding to Ferrari chairman John Elkann's call for drivers to "focus on driving and talk less" following the team's double retirement at the São Paulo Grand Prix. Ferrari now sits fourth in the constructors' championship, trailing Mercedes by 36 points and Red Bull by four with three races and a sprint event remaining.
'I wake up thinking about it'
Ahead of Sunday's Las Vegas Grand Prix, Hamilton addressed Elkann's remarks in a news conference, emphasizing his unwavering commitment. "Not really," he said when asked if the criticism was fair. "I wake up thinking about [driving], and I go to sleep thinking about it-even when I'm asleep." The 40-year-old, who joined Ferrari this season after 11 years at Mercedes, admitted the workload has been intense but rejected any notion of complacency.
"It's been the busiest year I've ever had," Hamilton noted, citing frequent visits to Ferrari's factory. "If anything, I need to focus on unplugging more." He added that he did not take Elkann's comments personally, acknowledging the chairman's passion: "We speak several times a week. It's all about bringing the team together."
A challenging debut season
Hamilton's first year with Ferrari has been marred by inconsistency. Despite winning the sprint race in China-the team's only highlight-he has yet to secure a podium finish in 2025 and currently ranks sixth in the drivers' standings. Teammate Charles Leclerc, by contrast, has achieved seven podiums.
The Briton described the season as a "nightmare" in terms of results but remains optimistic. "I still pinch myself that I'm in red," he said, reflecting on the pride of representing Ferrari. "I joined knowing it takes time to steer a ship in a different direction. This is a huge organization-you can't fix everything in the click of a finger."
"We've just continued to push on, full steam. It's reminded me how resilient I am."
Lewis Hamilton
Leclerc: Elkann's message was 'positive'
Leclerc revealed Elkann contacted him after the São Paulo GP to explain his intent. "He said the message was positive-that we want to do better," the Monegasque driver said. "I've always tried my best, and I'll keep trying." Leclerc echoed Hamilton's sentiment, emphasizing the team's collective priority: improvement.
What's next
With three races left, Ferrari faces an uphill battle to overtake Mercedes and Red Bull in the constructors' standings. Hamilton, however, remains undeterred: "When we get things right, it's going to be amazing. I can't wait for that moment."
