Former Indycar and Nascar star, now specializing in F1, Danica Patrick, reportedly caused a major debate in the Formula 1 community with a bold interview containing a controversial commentary on the dynamics between the current Ferrari drivers Lewis Hamilton (in his last season with the team) and Charles Leclerc. Patrick’s comments go beyond the mere analysis of the team’s dynamics, with some interpretations suggesting that she hinted that the new Hamilton could inadvertently “sabotage” Ferrari’s current efforts.
Although the context of Patrick’s interview and the exact formulation of his comment remains open to interpretation, some sources suggest that it referred to a potential destabilizing effect that Hamilton’s imminent arrival in 2026 could have about Ferrari’s current team. Considering recent radio communication problems and apparent tensions between Hamilton and Leclerc, Patrick’s comments can be interpreted as a suggestion that the focus and unit within Ferrari are being affected by the expectation of such a significant pilot change.
Patrick, known for his frank opinions, may have highlighted a scenario in which the current team’s current strategies and pilots’ priorities are being influenced, consciously or unconsciously, through Hamilton’s arrival. This can manifest in subtle ways, affecting team decisions, resource allocation and even the psychological dynamics between Leclerc and the team, as a heptacal world champion is lurking. The idea that a future pilot can indirectly harm a team’s current performance is provocative.
Reactions to Patrick’s comments were mixed and heated. Some fans and analysts share their opinions, pointing out visible friction and recent team problems as potential signs of a troubled inner climate. Others have criticized their comments as speculative and potentially inflammatory, arguing that it is unfair to suggest that Hamilton, which is not even officially part of the team, is somehow sabotaging the current season. Whatever the interpretation, Patrick’s bold interview no doubt added another layer of intrigue to the already complex narrative around Ferrari and the imminent arrival of Lewis Hamilton.
