Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc Ferrari tension addressed by Bottas
Ferrari teammates Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc
Valtteri Bottas believes that his former teammate Lewis Hamilton has “got his mojo back” and so “wants to keep it.”
However, he also suggested that brief “frictions” between teammates is nothing unusual, after Hamilton clashed with Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc at the Mexican Grand Prix.
Bottas sure Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc ‘on good terms’
There was tension in the Ferrari camp in Mexico City after a first-lap clash between its drivers.
Leclerc had challenged Hamilton around the outside into Turn 4, with neither making the corner. The former cut the grass, re-joining in the race lead, while Max Verstappen picked off Hamilton.
Leclerc was given a five-second penalty, which allowed Verstappen to leapfrog him in the pits. The Red Bull racer went on to claim a third grand prix win in his last four.
Hamilton, meanwhile, frustrated after the race, accused his teammate of “working against him” in this Ferrari clash.
One of Hamilton’s most productive partnerships was alongside Bottas at Mercedes. It delivered five Constructors’ titles, while Hamilton won four Drivers’ crowns with Bottas on the other side of the garage.
The Finn, now racing with F1 2026 newcomers Cadillac, doubts there is much cause for concern in Maranello.
“I haven’t watched it so closely, but it happens sometimes,” said Bottas of the Hamilton and Leclerc tensions.
“They’re both obviously very competitive, and Lewis seems like he’s got his mojo back, and he wants to keep it. So not much to say, really.
“I think these short, momentary frictions can happen and can come in this sport. That’s normal. But I’m sure they’re on good terms.”
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Hamilton, ahead of returning to action at the Brazilian Grand Prix, spoke of his efforts to build a “good relationship” with Leclerc.
He also acknowledged that his “very outspoken” nature can rock a boat such as Ferraris, but that approach will continue and is necessary to his mind.
“I mean, he’s been here a long time,” said Hamilton of Leclerc. “Eight years. Had nine wins in the team. He is very much embedded within the team, and I knew that it would always be a challenge.
“I’ve always respected that in how I’ve approached the team. I’ve really worked hard to build a good relationship with Charles, and bridge the gap, and make sure that we’re harmonious and we work hard together. Always try to be respectful.
“So naturally, it’s not so easy having someone like me come into a team because I’m very outspoken and I push and push and push. I’ve pushed for so many changes, and I’m going to be pushing for more. And as long as I’m here, that’s how it’s going to be.
“I’m here to win, and to be able to win, you have to work with everyone around you, at trying to get everyone to row at the same pace and also the same strength, and you have to push, and I have to be pushed also to elevate. We all can always elevate and be better. I truly believe that this team can be fighting for the championship next year.”
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