Ferrari faced a disappointing outcome at the Italian Grand Prix, held at their home circuit in Monza, as neither Charles Leclerc nor Lewis Hamilton managed to compete for a podium finish or a race win. The troubles for Ferrari started early during the Qualifying session, where Hamilton did not assist Leclerc by providing a tow that could have improved his teammate’s starting position. This decision drew harsh criticism from former Ferrari driver Jean Alesi, who openly condemned Hamilton’s attitude toward the situation.
Lewis Hamilton’s Qualifying Penalty and Missed Opportunity to Support Leclerc
After returning from an emotional summer break with optimism, Lewis Hamilton’s hopes for a strong finish at Monza were dampened by a five-place grid penalty, severely limiting his race prospects. During the Qualifying rounds, Hamilton had the chance to aid Charles Leclerc by offering a slipstream to help the Monegasque driver secure a better grid slot than his eventual fourth-place start. Leclerc was left confused and frustrated after Hamilton chose not to provide this assistance, sparking debate about team dynamics and strategy.
Jean Alesi’s Sharp Criticism of Hamilton’s Conduct at Monza
Jean Alesi expressed clear disappointment with Hamilton’s refusal to support Leclerc during the Qualifying session, stating that the seven-time World Champion could and should have acted differently, especially in front of the passionate Italian fans known as the Tifosi. Alesi emphasized that everyone expected Hamilton to take the initiative to help his teammate without having to be prompted, given the course of the season and his own statements.
“I didn’t like Hamilton’s attitude. He really could have, and perhaps should have, helped Leclerc in qualifying on Saturday. Everyone expected Lewis to behave like that, without even being asked to do so, given his words, the course of the season, and his first encounter with the Italian fans.”
—Jean Alesi, Former Ferrari Driver
Analyzing Ferrari’s Position and Future Prospects
Despite the controversy over Qualifying tactics, Alesi pointed out that a better starting position probably would not have altered the race outcome for Ferrari, considering the dominant pace shown by rivals like Max Verstappen and McLaren. Alesi urged fans to remain patient and keep faith in Ferrari, suggesting that any meaningful progress would likely arrive in the next season rather than the current one.
“Even though a better grid position wouldn’t have changed the outcome of the race for Ferrari. It’s clear we’ll have to wait until next year [for Ferrari to bounce back], maintaining our faith and trust.”
—Jean Alesi, Former Ferrari Driver
Hamilton Looks Ahead to Next Season Amidst Challenges
Lewis Hamilton has openly acknowledged the difficulties Ferrari has encountered throughout the season and has already shifted his focus toward the year ahead. The 40-year-old is determined to regain his winning form and become a title contender before contemplating his future with the team. Alesi recognized this outlook, understanding that both Hamilton and Ferrari must overcome significant challenges.
Ferrari’s Battle to Maintain Standing in 2025 and Implications for the Future
Ferrari faces the immense task of closing the gap on top competitors to hold onto second place in the constructors’ championship this season. The impact of the new technical regulations remains uncertain, though Hamilton remains hopeful that these changes could benefit the team moving forward. How Ferrari and Hamilton perform in the upcoming races and next year will be crucial for their future prospects.
