Schumacher advises Ferrari teammates to resolve their dispute.

Schumacher advises Ferrari teammates to resolve their dispute.

      "They need to learn to row in the same direction."

      Ralf Schumacher asserts that Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc must address their escalating tensions within Ferrari privately, following the team orders issue at Zandvoort. Hamilton was upset after losing time while behind Leclerc, as Ferrari did not instruct the Monegasque to move aside promptly. Hamilton later expressed regret for the tone of his criticisms on the radio and television, but Schumacher believes the core issue persists. "They definitely need to get into a two-person rowing boat and learn to paddle in the same direction," he stated to Sky Deutschland. "Two distinct personalities collided, and I can imagine that their interactions are far from harmonious. This is evident in their radio exchanges."

      "I find this approach less than ideal - it should be resolved internally." Schumacher mentioned that both drivers have played a role in creating the tension. "It goes both ways," he remarked. "Lewis Hamilton, as we know, is politically savvy and will utilize the radio to express himself." "On the other hand, Leclerc has also made requests, but he was reluctant at the time. They both need to have a conversation, and the team leader needs to assert authority." "Ultimately, the focus should be on the brand, not the individual drivers."

      Schumacher expressed empathy for Hamilton’s frustrations but was less supportive of his public remarks. "At his age and with his stature, one could approach it differently," he commented. "Criticizing his team publicly would have been unthinkable in the past; it was completely unacceptable." Nonetheless, Schumacher commended Hamilton's recent improvement. "Lewis has made a significant turnaround. Nobody would have predicted that last year." "Kudos to him. At his age, he remains incredibly fit and is giving his all."

      Former Ferrari driver Jean Alesi also criticized Hamilton’s response, deeming the radio and media remarks "inappropriate." "True, Charles didn’t yield immediately, but I don’t think that was the reason Ferrari didn’t secure a podium at Zandvoort," he told Corriere della Sera. "Lewis has a strong personality—undoubtedly an asset to Ferrari—but he also demands a certain level of respect. I remind him and everyone that Ferrari is Ferrari." "That alone deserves respect, regardless of whether one complies with Hamilton’s requests immediately."

Schumacher advises Ferrari teammates to resolve their dispute.

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Schumacher advises Ferrari teammates to resolve their dispute.

Formula 1 | Ralf Schumacher states that Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc should address their escalating tensions within Ferrari privately following the team orders (…)