Arrivabene labels Hamilton-style engineer dossiers as 'ineffectual.'
Maurizio Arrivabene has criticized Lewis Hamilton for his tendency to send detailed technical "dossiers" to Ferrari, which he believes is counterproductive and lacks historical significance. Hamilton's method of offering engineering suggestions has reportedly frustrated some members of the proud Maranello team during the challenging 2025 season.
Speaking on Sky Italia’s Race Anatomy, Arrivabene recalled similar behavior from Sebastian Vettel's time, stating, "Vettel sent out such dossiers. He wrote, talked, and shared everything. But it was nearly futile. I don't intend to speak negatively about Sebastian, but everyone should stick to their role. A driver’s responsibilities extend beyond just driving; they should also contribute to car development. However, when they start acting as engineers, it’s time to turn off the lights."
He emphasized that drivers, even those who are multiple world champions, often lack the technical expertise necessary to significantly influence factory development. "Drivers typically spend two to three days in the simulator and gain a broad understanding of the car's development. But the intricacies lie in the details," remarked the former Ferrari team boss. "A Formula 1 car consists of over 50,000 components that interact through complex logic. Thus, everyone has to fulfill their role. When the car is on track, the driver needs to provide pertinent feedback so the engineers can enhance the car, especially if it has potential."
These comments are particularly pointed given the current troubled relationship between Hamilton and Ferrari during a season marked by frustrations, miscommunications, and growing retirement rumors. Additionally, reports from Italy suggest that a portion of Arthur Leclerc’s FP1 program in Abu Dhabi last Friday included testing a new steering wheel concept that Hamilton has internally advocated. It is said that he is dissatisfied with the complex, button-laden design and rotary system that originated during Vettel's time and is still evident on the present Ferrari steering wheel.
Other articles
Marko refutes claims that Red Bull compelled his departure as more information comes to light.
Formula 1 | Dr. Helmut Marko maintains that his exit from Red Bull was by choice, countering claims that he was forced out after two decades with the organization. (…)
FIA increases F1 Super Licence points for IndyCar.
Formula 1 | The FIA has announced an increase in Super Licence points for IndyCar, a long-awaited change that arrives as Colton Herta requires an F2 (…)
Alonso discusses the rustiness he experienced after his comeback.
Formula 1 | Fernando Alonso has shared one of his most honest insights regarding the mental struggles involved in maintaining motivation during years without wins - and the (…)
Prost claims Verstappen remains the top driver of 2025.
Formula 1 | Ralf Schumacher and Alain Prost both agree that Max Verstappen was the standout driver of 2025, even though he lost the championship to Lando Norris - as skepticism (…)
Rovanpera stopped by dizziness, Doohan associated with Haas.
Formula 1 | Kalle Rovanpera's highly awaited Super Formula debut test at Suzuka was abruptly halted after the Finnish driver was diagnosed with benign positional vertigo. (…)
Arrivabene labels Hamilton-style engineer dossiers as 'ineffectual.'
Formula 1 | Maurizio Arrivabene has criticized Lewis Hamilton for his practice of sending Ferrari comprehensive technical documents - a behavior the Italian claims is (…)