Patrese Praises Hamilton’s Consistency
Former Formula 1 driver Riccardo Patrese believes Ferrari may need to make a decisive call in its championship campaign by placing its full support behind Lewis Hamilton.
Patrese has been impressed by Hamilton’s performances and consistency, suggesting the seven-time world champion currently has an advantage over Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc in that department.
“He’s doing a fantastic job and right now he’s more consistent than Charles,” Patrese said, highlighting Hamilton’s ability to deliver strong results while maintaining a steady level of performance.
Ferrari Facing a Major Decision
The comments come as Ferrari continues to balance the ambitions of two highly accomplished drivers. Hamilton and Leclerc are both capable of challenging for victories, but Patrese believes the team may eventually have to establish a clear hierarchy if it wants to mount a serious Drivers’ Championship challenge.
Ferrari’s approach to team orders has already attracted attention this season, particularly following the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort. According to Patrese, the team’s hesitation in making a call may have prevented Hamilton from securing a potentially valuable podium finish.
Zandvoort Raises Questions
Patrese argues that Ferrari’s delayed decision-making at Zandvoort demonstrated the potential consequences of trying to keep both drivers on equal footing during critical moments.
In a championship battle where every point can prove decisive, strategic calls involving teammates can have a significant impact. Patrese believes Ferrari must be prepared to act more quickly when circumstances demand it.
The former F1 driver’s comments effectively put the spotlight on Ferrari’s management and whether the team is willing to prioritize one driver when the championship situation becomes more defined.
Hamilton’s Championship Ambitions
Hamilton joined Ferrari with enormous expectations, and the veteran driver remains one of the biggest names on the Formula 1 grid. His experience in championship battles could prove particularly valuable as the season develops.
Patrese’s argument is not necessarily a criticism of Leclerc’s ability. Instead, it reflects the belief that Ferrari could benefit from committing its resources behind the driver who appears to be showing greater consistency.
For Hamilton, having clear backing from the team could provide additional confidence during crucial races, particularly when strategic decisions and teammate positioning become important.
Ferrari Must Find the Right Balance
Ferrari now faces a delicate challenge. Supporting Hamilton as a clear No. 1 could maximize his championship prospects, but doing so would also require careful management of Leclerc and the wider team dynamic.
The Scuderia has historically faced intense scrutiny over its team-order decisions, meaning any move to establish a preferred driver would likely generate significant debate.
Patrese’s message is clear: if Ferrari genuinely wants to fight for the Drivers’ Championship, indecision could become costly. With Hamilton currently viewed by Patrese as the more consistent performer, the former driver believes Ferrari may need to make a firm choice.
The Big Question
Whether Ferrari should officially make Hamilton its No. 1 driver remains a contentious question. For now, the team must weigh championship ambitions against maintaining harmony between two elite drivers.
As the season progresses, Ferrari’s strategic decisions could ultimately determine whether either Hamilton or Leclerc has a realistic chance of fighting for the title.