“Ferrari’s Strategy Backfires in Miami – Leclerc Reacts to Hamilton T…..read more
The Miami Grand Prix was far from smooth sailing for Ferrari, with team strategy and on-track dynamics causing visible tension—yet Charles Leclerc has been quick to extinguish any narrative of animosity between himself and seven-time World Champion, Lewis Hamilton.
Despite Ferrari’s hopes for a stronger showing, the race saw both of their drivers—Hamilton and Leclerc—finishing well outside the podium places. Leclerc ended the race in seventh, just behind the Mercedes of young sensation Kimi Antonelli, while Hamilton came home eighth after a tightly contested battle in the closing stages. Carlos Sainz, now racing for Williams, nearly overtook Hamilton on the final lap, even making contact at Turn 17 in a dramatic attempt.
Much of the spotlight, however, fell on Ferrari’s internal team orders during the race. The Scuderia had opted for a split strategy: Hamilton started on the more durable hard tyres, while Leclerc began on mediums. After the single round of pit stops, Hamilton—now on the faster compound—found himself behind Leclerc, and expected to be allowed through to maximise his tyre advantage.
However, Ferrari initially instructed both drivers to maintain position, frustrating Hamilton, who argued over team radio for the chance to pass. Eventually, the team relented, telling Leclerc to let Hamilton by. But once ahead, Hamilton couldn’t build a gap, and Leclerc claimed he was being held up instead. The situation flipped once more, with Ferrari instructing Hamilton to let Leclerc retake the position.
The strategic indecisiveness left both drivers vulnerable, with minimal gains in terms of overall result. Yet in the aftermath of the confusion, Leclerc was quick to dismiss any notion of friction with Hamilton. “I have no bad feelings towards Lewis,” Leclerc said, emphasizing the professionalism between the two as they try to navigate Ferrari’s growing pains.
The bigger question now looms over Ferrari’s future strategy and competitiveness. The team’s lack of clarity in Miami exposed communication issues and a need for more decisive calls. Meanwhile, with Kimi Antonelli’s rapid rise and Carlos Sainz still posing a threat even in a Williams, the pressure is mounting for Ferrari to find answers quickly.
As the Formula 1 season progresses, all eyes will be on how Ferrari balances its driver dynamics and recovers from what many consider to be a squandered opportunity in Miami.
