Elkann was clearly dissatisfied with his drivers after the disastrous F1 weekend in Brazil.“We have drivers who need to focus more on driving and less on talking,” said the Ferrari boss, who felt the mechanics and engineers were doing their jobs properly. According to him, the drivers are not performing at the level expected of them.

Leclerc wrote on X: “A very tough weekend in São Paulo. It’s disappointing to go home with almost no points in a crucial phase of the season, where we are fighting for second place in the Constructors’ Championship. From now on it’s going to be a tough task, and it’s clear that only unity can help us turn the situation around in the last three races. We will give it everything, as always.”

Hamilton shared a statement on the same platform shortly afterwards. “I stand by my team. I stand by myself. I will not give up. Not now, not then, never. Thank you, Brazil, as always,” said the Briton.

Ferrari suffered a double DNF in the Brazilian GP. It cannot be concluded that the Formula 1 drivers’ statements were intended as a response to Elkann’s harsh words, as it is customary for drivers to comment on their weekend on social media.

Want to stay up-to-date with what happens in the F1 paddock? Then GPblog's F1 Paddock Update video is the perfect way to do it. Subscribe to GPblog's YouTube channel and turn on notifications to never miss the latest episodes.