Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has publicly called for “respect” following a chaotic first-lap incident between his drivers, Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, at the Mexican Grand Prix. The clash occurred at Turn 4 of the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, where Leclerc attempted to overtake pole-sitter Hamilton. Both cars left the track during the maneuver, with Leclerc emerging ahead, but the incident ultimately cost the Monegasque driver a five-second penalty for gaining an advantage while off-track.
Ferrari boss slams internal chaos as Leclerc’s penalty costs team crucial points
The on-track turbulence significantly altered the race dynamics, allowing Red Bull’s Max Verstappen to secure victory while Hamilton recovered to finish second. Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli claimed third place, and Leclerc crossed the line in fourth after serving his penalty. The result highlighted the fragility of Ferrari’s current standing, as internal competition turned into a strategic liability rather than a competitive advantage for the team.
Speaking to Sky Sports F1, Vasseur emphasized that the incident is not just about racing lines but about the broader implications for the organization. “I think it’s just a matter of respect, the respect for the brand, for the sponsor, for the team, for the 2,000 people working at home like hell,” Vasseur stated. He stressed that the team has made significant performance strides with recent upgrades, with staff working “night and day,” and urged both drivers to prioritize collective success over individual glory as Ferrari continues its push to reclaim championship relevance.
Source: Yahoo Sports
