Ferrari's Lewis Hamilton responds to criticism from team president

Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton has responded to criticism from team president John Elkann following the race in Brazil, BBC reported.

Elkann had urged the seven-time Formula 1 champion and his teammate Charles Leclerc “to focus on their work and talk less” after both retired from the São Paulo Grand Prix, CE Report quotes BTA.

The result left Ferrari fourth in the Constructors’ Championship—36 points behind second-place Mercedes and four behind Red Bull in third.

Elkann’s remarks became the main topic of Hamilton’s press conference ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix. Asked whether it was fair to be told to concentrate more on driving, Hamilton replied:

“I don’t think it’s fair. When I wake up, I think about driving; when I go to sleep, I think about it—and even when I’m sleeping, too. If there’s any issue, it’s that I need to learn how to rest more. It’s been a tough year. Maybe the busiest I’ve ever had. I’ve spent more time preparing than ever before.”

Hamilton added that he did not take Elkann’s comments personally.

“I know what John’s intentions are. We’ve spoken a few times since last week. The most important thing is that the team stays united, and that’s our goal. We are all fully committed,” he said.

The 40-year-old joined Ferrari at the start of the season after 11 years with Mercedes. His debut campaign has been challenging, and he currently sits sixth in the Drivers’ Standings with three races remaining.

“It feels like we’re climbing a mountain, and when the weekend comes, we slip and take a few steps back. I believe in this team one hundred percent, and I have full confidence in myself. I know that when things finally come together for us, it will be fantastic—and I can’t wait for that moment, because it’ll be very interesting to see what you write then,” Hamilton told reporters.