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Ferrari drivers Leclerc and Hamilton reconcile after Monza collision
Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton have resolved the tension following an opening-lap collision at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza. Leclerc admitted he “went too far” in his defense during the second corner, which forced Hamilton onto the gravel and cost the Briton several positions. The two drivers met privately to discuss the incident and have affirmed that their professional relationship remains strong.
Despite the personal reconciliation, Hamilton has called for clearer “rules of engagement” within the team to manage future on-track battles, noting that Mercedes utilized written protocols to avoid such conflicts. Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur has addressed the situation, stating that while the drivers have cleared the air, the team is working on long-term communication and operational improvements.
Beyond driver dynamics, Ferrari faces technical challenges. Vasseur noted that the team’s power unit currently lacks the pure speed to compete with rivals like Mercedes and Red Bull-Ford, suggesting that a more competitive engine may not arrive until 2027. The team now shifts its focus to the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid.
Entities
Charles Leclerc · Ferrari · Fred Vasseur · Frederic Vasseur · John Elkann · Lewis Hamilton · Monza