By Salma El-Sakka
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has told his drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc that they do not need to be "best friends" but must work as professionals following their collision at the Mexican Grand Prix.
Vasseur calls for professionalism
Speaking ahead of the Brazilian Grand Prix, Vasseur said he held showdown talks with both drivers after the first-lap incident in Mexico City. He emphasized that the Ferrari brand comes first and that the priority is to act professionally. "I'm not asking them to be best friends. I think it would be even probably a bit negative. I'm just asking them to act and to work as professionals and this is it," Vasseur said.
Hamilton and Leclerc clash in Mexico
Hamilton, who secured his first pole position for Ferrari, collided with Leclerc on the opening lap after the Monegasque driver pulled alongside him. The contact allowed Max Verstappen to pass Hamilton for second place, and Verstappen went on to win the race. Hamilton later argued over team radio that Leclerc's move "lost us the win" and called for a written rule of engagement between the teammates.
Shared responsibility
Vasseur refused to blame Leclerc alone, stating that the team failed collectively having started one-two but failing to win. He said the meeting's conclusion was a clear reminder that Ferrari comes first, and that the discussion would remain private out of respect for the drivers and the team.
Wolff compares to Rosberg rivalry
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff, Hamilton's former boss, likened the situation to Hamilton's past battles with Nico Rosberg at Mercedes. Wolff said the dynamic of two strong drivers with edges is difficult to manage and that tough moments like the Mexico incident are sometimes needed to make a point.
