Lewis Hamilton says Ferrari need serious talks behind closed doors after teammate collision cost them victory in Mexico.
Formula 1 driver Lewis Hamilton has stated that Scuderia Ferrari must hold urgent discussions following a dramatic opening lap at the Mexico City Grand Prix on November 1, 2026.
The internal conflict between Hamilton and teammate Charles Leclerc allowed Red Bull driver Max Verstappen to secure the race victory, according to information published by BBC.
The tense atmosphere within the Maranello team has escalated following multiple track incidents this season, raising questions about team orders and championship strategies.
Ferrari Driver Battle Costs Race Win
The trouble began immediately when Charles Leclerc cut a chicane on the opening lap to seize the lead from Lewis Hamilton. This aggressive maneuver compromised Hamilton, who subsequently lost second place to Max Verstappen.
Verstappen capitalized on the chaos to win the race, while Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli finished third, making history as the youngest world champion in Formula 1.
Radio Frustration During Red Flag
During a red-flag period caused by a crash involving Cadillac driver Valtteri Bottas, Hamilton expressed deep concern over the team radio, stating they had big problems.
Hamilton argued that if the two Ferraris had cooperated on the first lap, they would have locked out the front positions and comfortably controlled the remainder of the race.
Charles Leclerc Defends First-Lap Move
When informed of his teammate's frustration, Charles Leclerc defended his driving by stating that neither driver made the corner cleanly while fighting for position.
Leclerc noted that keeping a Red Bull behind was his priority, adding that he could also criticize how far Hamilton pushed him off the track at Turn One.
Escalating Tensions Throughout the 2026 Season
This incident represents the most serious escalation in a growing rivalry between the Ferrari teammates throughout the 2026 Formula 1 championship.
Earlier tensions included Leclerc pushing Hamilton wide at the Italian Grand Prix, ignoring team orders in a previous round, and refusing a strategy-based swap in Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Lewis Hamilton demand talks with Ferrari?
Lewis Hamilton demanded urgent discussions because an opening-lap collision with teammate Charles Leclerc cost Ferrari a potential victory at the Mexico City Grand Prix.
What happened between Hamilton and Leclerc in Mexico?
Charles Leclerc cut a chicane to pass Lewis Hamilton on the first lap, which allowed Max Verstappen to overtake Hamilton and eventually win the race.
How did Charles Leclerc respond to the criticism?
Charles Leclerc defended his actions by stating they were hard racing for the lead and that keeping a Red Bull behind was his primary objective.
Who won the Mexico City Grand Prix?
Max Verstappen won the Mexico City Grand Prix, with Lewis Hamilton finishing second and Kimi Antonelli taking third place to secure the world championship.
