Former Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz prefers not to get involved in reacting to executive John Elkann's verdict on Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton. "You know the meme I'm talking about, that frog with a tea. That's literally me right now."
- Carlos SainzAAfter Ferrari's disappointing double DNF at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, executive Elkann commented on the Scuderia's current performance.
He said at an event in Rome:
"We have drivers who need to focus on driving and talk less. We still have important races ahead, and securing second place in the Constructors’ Championship isn’t impossible." Ex-Ferrari driver Sainz was asked by Sky Sports' Ted Kravitz about the situation and whether he could be more open with his criticism at Williams.
The Spaniard said: "How do you say... That, Ted, is none of my business. You know the frog that has the tea? That is none of my business."
He then added: "You know the meme I'm talking about, that frog with a tea. That's literally me right now."
Sainz was referring to the well-known meme including Kermit the Frog drinking tea from a glass.
Lewis Hamilton in the F1 paddock - Photo: Race Pictures
Ferrari drivers react to Elkann in Las Vegas
Both current Ferrari drivers were also asked about the situation in the United States.
Hamilton said he is "always willing to do less media." He added:
"But no, seriously, I think we all need to take responsibility in this team and we all need to play our part." Leclerc also downplayed Elkann's comments.
The Monegasque driver explained:
“He told me what the intention of his words were and it was very clear it was a positive message.“Whichever way it's been expressed I cannot really comment and it's not my job to comment, but the intent was positive and that's what really matters to me so that's why I'm fine with that."
GPblog's F1 Paddock Update
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.
Don't forget to follow 'F1 Paddock Update' on Spotify as well!