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Ferrari drivers face grid penalties and internal tension in Brazil
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has held meetings with Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc to address rising tensions following their collision during the Mexico Grand Prix. The incident, which saw both drivers run off the track while battling for the lead, cost the team a potential 1-2 finish and allowed Max Verstappen to win. Hamilton has expressed frustration, alleging that Leclerc races him more aggressively than other competitors.
Adding to the team's challenges at the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, both Hamilton and Leclerc will face ten-place grid penalties. The decision follows a strategic choice by Ferrari to replace the internal combustion engines on both cars during Friday practice.
Vasseur emphasized that while the drivers are fierce competitors, they must prioritize the team and the brand. He stated that the goal is for them to act as professionals and maintain mutual respect to avoid further internal conflicts that could jeopardize championship opportunities.
Entities
Carlos Sainz · Charles Leclerc · Ferrari · Fred Vasseur · Frederic Vasseur · Interlagos · Lewis Hamilton · Max Verstappen · Toto Wolff · Williams
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Sainz and Leclerc resolved their disagreements through private, direct conversations.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Sainz reported receiving insults and ill wishes from extreme Charles Leclerc supporters.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Sainz currently races for the Williams team.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Sainz stated that fighting for wins makes drivers more selfish than fighting for mid-field positions.
- [● 2 SOURCES] Carlos Sainz competed for Ferrari alongside Charles Leclerc between 2021 and 2024.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] Italian media reportedly questioned whether Sainz or Leclerc should fulfill the role of the number two driver.