In this article
Sky Sports commentators Karun Chandhok and Martin Brundle have questioned Ferrari's management following the Mexico City Grand Prix, arguing that an opening-lap battle between Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc compromised the squad's chances of victory. Karun Chandhok, a former Formula 1 driver and Sky Sports commentator, questioned how Ferrari handles the rivalry between its drivers, noting that a lack of clear rules once again hurt the Italian outfit. Speaking during the broadcast, Chandhok stated that Mexico appeared to mark the second consecutive race weekend where Ferrari possessed the fastest car without winning the race.
Opening-Lap Duel at Turn 4
Ferrari appeared to have the fastest car at the Mexico Grand Prix, with Hamilton starting from pole position while Leclerc started third. However, an opening-lap confrontation between the two drivers opened the door for Max Verstappen to take the win. The incident occurred at Turn 4, where both drivers went beyond track limits; Leclerc took to the grass to seize the lead, while Hamilton lost speed upon returning to the track and was passed by Verstappen. Stewards subsequently handed Leclerc a five-second time penalty for gaining an off-track advantage, which resulted in the Monegasque driver losing the race lead to Verstappen during the pit stops.
Related posts
Pundits Criticise Internal Organisation
Chandhok pointed directly to the team's lack of organisation as a primary cause, remarking that failing to work adequately as a team and establish a strict structure for both competitors prevented them from winning. His assessment reinforced recurring criticism of Ferrari during the season, where strategic errors and internal disputes have squandered multiple opportunities despite fielding a competitive package. Martin Brundle, another Sky Sports commentator and former F1 driver, also criticised the fallout from the battle, writing in an analysis published by the British broadcaster that the internal squabble cost Ferrari a potential one-two finish in Mexico.
Hamilton Urges Changes After Lost Win
That critique gained weight from the final classification, where Verstappen took the victory, Hamilton crossed the line in second place, and Leclerc took fourth behind Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli, who secured the world championship. Hamilton also voiced dissatisfaction with Leclerc's conduct, asserting that Ferrari had the conditions to finish in the top two positions if the drivers worked together. The British driver recalled having previously observed similar disputes between Leclerc and Carlos Sainz before his arrival at Ferrari, adding that this type of rivalry becomes particularly harmful when the team is fighting for a race victory rather than merely midfield positions.
Leclerc Explanation and Team Response
Leclerc acknowledged that the penalty was justified, though he explained that Verstappen's presence between the two Ferrari cars contributed to a confusing situation on track. Team principal Fred Vasseur also displayed frustration, calling for greater respect for collective interests. Ferrari now faces internal discussions regarding how to prevent further damaging incidents, needing to translate the potential of a car capable of winning at select circuits into race-winning results.
