Former Formula 1 world champion Damon Hill has issued a stark warning to Ferrari, insisting the team must unequivocally back Lewis Hamilton over Charles Leclerc if they aim to challenge for the Drivers’ Championship next season. Speaking on the latest episode of The F1 Show podcast alongside Anthony Davidson and Simon Lazenby, Hill described Hamilton as an “extraordinary” talent whose experience is currently being undermined by internal team dynamics. The seven-time world champion believes that prioritizing the older driver’s strategic maturity is essential for Ferrari to compete against the current pace-setters.
Damon Hill urges Scuderia to resolve internal friction before 2025 season
This call for unity comes in the wake of the chaotic Mexico City Grand Prix, where a first-lap collision between Hamilton and Leclerc cost Ferrari a likely one-two finish. Hamilton, who started from pole position and led into Turn 1, was overtaken by his teammate before the two made contact, allowing Red Bull’s Max Verstappen to capitalize on the chaos and secure the victory. The incident intensified scrutiny on Ferrari’s management, with Hamilton publicly criticizing Leclerc’s aggressive approach, while team principal Fred Vasseur also expressed significant displeasure at the lack of restraint between the pair.
As Mercedes completes their historic title double and McLaren’s Lando Norris continues to shine with a victory in Brazil, Ferrari faces a critical juncture. Hill’s comments highlight the urgency for the Italian marque to establish a clear hierarchy and resolve their handling issues before the 2025 campaign begins. Without a cohesive strategy and a settled driver lineup, Ferrari risks further squandered opportunities in a grid where consistency is the key to championship glory.
Source: Sky Sports
