LAS VEGAS: Lewis Hamilton has defended himself following comments from Ferrari chairman John Elkann, who urged both Hamilton and teammate Charles Leclerc to “focus on driving and talk less” after Ferrari suffered a disastrous double retirement at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix.
The DNFs dealt a major blow to Ferrari’s Constructors’ Championship hopes, dropping them to fourth place. Mercedes now sit 36 points ahead, while Red Bull remain only four points clear with three races and a sprint still to go in the 2025 Formula 1 season.
Hamilton: “I live and breathe this job”
Speaking in the drivers’ press conference ahead of Sunday’s Las Vegas Grand Prix, Hamilton said he did not take Elkann’s remarks personally and insisted he is more committed than ever.
“I wake up thinking about it, and I go to sleep thinking about it,” Hamilton said.
“If anything, I need to learn to unplug more. It’s been the busiest year of my career. I’ve been at the factory more than I think I’ve ever been at any team before.”
Hamilton stressed that his dedication has not wavered despite the challenges of his first season with Ferrari.
“I know where John’s intentions are” — Hamilton on Elkann
The seven-time world champion clarified that Elkann’s comments were meant to motivate the team rather than criticise individuals.
“I know where John’s intentions are,” Hamilton explained.
“We speak several times a week, and we’ve spoken multiple times since last week. It’s all about bringing the team together. We’re all deep in it.”
Hamilton praised the passion within Ferrari, saying it is one of the traits he admires most about the Italian team.
“The passion runs so deep. I love that, and I can never fault someone for having passion like that.”
A season to forget for Hamilton
Hamilton’s first year with Ferrari has been historically poor by his standards. He remains without a podium after 21 races, the longest podium drought for any Ferrari driver.
Despite the setbacks, Hamilton maintains optimism that the team will bounce back as the season enters its final stretch.
