Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has refused to implement strict written rules for Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton following their opening-lap collision at the Italian Grand Prix.
Hamilton was forced wide during the Monza race won by Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli. The British driver noted that his former team operated with strict guidelines. This contrasts heavily with both Ferrari’s approach and McLaren’s free racing policy.
Speaking to the Guardian, Hamilton said: “When I was at Mercedes we had written rules of engagement. Here there are no rules. That’s something that needs to probably change.”
Clear Principles Over Strict Contracts
Vasseur dismissed the necessity for prescriptive clauses. He told Motorsport.com that the Scuderia operates on foundational team-first guidelines.
“To say that there are no ‘rules of engagement’ doesn’t reflect reality,” he said. Vasseur added that anticipating every scenario is impossible. Ferrari will maintain equal driver status until the championship arithmetic dictates otherwise.
While rival teams secure future talent, as seen with Red Bull signing Kimi Räikkönen’s son, Ferrari are focusing on harmonising their current lineup. The duo held discussions with senior management ahead of the inaugural Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid.
Leclerc admitted fault for the Monza clash to Sky Sports, stating: “I didn’t behave the way I should have”. Hamilton praised his teammate’s maturity, confirming the pair have resolved the dispute.
The grid now prepares for opening practice at the Madring circuit on Friday, as Ferrari attempt to close the gap to Mercedes in the constructors’ standings.
