Ferrari handed clear ultimatum over driver hierarchy: 'Make Hamilton #1 driver'

The 1996 world champion made his position clear on X following the controversial Mexican Grand Prix, where tensions between Hamilton and Charles Leclerc intensified after their opening-lap battle cost Ferrari a potential victory.

Hamilton started the race from pole position, with Leclerc third, but the two teammates became involved in a fierce battle through the opening corners. Both went off track at Turn 4, with Leclerc subsequently receiving a five-second penalty for gaining an advantage.

Max Verstappen capitalised on the situation to take the lead and eventually win the race, while Hamilton recovered to finish second and Leclerc crossed the line fourth.

The incident reignited questions about how Ferrari should manage its two drivers, particularly as Hamilton and Leclerc continue to compete on equal terms.

Hill believes the solution is straightforward and has called on Ferrari to make a definitive decision rather than allowing the internal rivalry to continue.

Writing on X, the former Williams driver reiterated a position he expressed during the Mexican Grand Prix weekend: "Here is where I stand on the Lewis vs Charles debate, and I made this point on Sunday in Mexico; make Lewis #1 Ferrari driver. Sort it out. Make it clear. Ends all debate. Lewis will deliver for Ferrari. If they back him 100"

This is not the first time Hill has advocated for Hamilton to receive preferential treatment at Maranello. Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix, the 1996 world champion questioned Ferrari's decision to maintain equal status between its drivers.

Hill then made it clear that Hamilton would be his preferred choice, arguing that Ferrari has never fully committed to the seven-time world champion since his arrival in 2025.