Hamilton criticises Leclerc’s ‘do or die’ approach after Ferrari clash in Mexico

Lewis Hamilton has criticised Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc after their first-lap battle compromised the team’s chances of winning the Formula 1 Mexico Grand Prix.

Hamilton started from pole at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, while Leclerc was third. The Ferrari drivers moved into first and second when George Russell lost momentum at Turn 1, but Leclerc immediately attacked Hamilton around the outside.

Leclerc remained behind after running over the kerb at Turn 2, then tried another move at Turn 4. As the available space disappeared, he took evasive action by cutting Turn 5 and gained the lead. The incident brought a five-second penalty, while Hamilton was passed by Max Verstappen.

Verstappen went on to win, with Hamilton finishing second and Mercedes’ Kimi Antonelli third. Leclerc took fourth, leaving Ferrari with two victories during the 2026 campaign.

Hamilton said the situation was different from team-mate battles for lower positions because Ferrari had been in position to secure a one-two finish. He described Leclerc’s approach as a mentality issue, suggesting it reflected an attitude of winning at all costs even if neither driver ultimately succeeded.

The result followed other tense moments between the Ferrari drivers. At Zandvoort, Hamilton complained after being held up and questioned the lack of team orders. At Monza, Leclerc accepted responsibility after Hamilton was forced onto the gravel at Turn 2.

Leclerc defended his Mexico move by saying there had been an opportunity and that he would always attack when fighting for a victory. Hamilton said the pair would discuss the situation privately, adding that Ferrari needed to determine how the drivers should race each other.

Hamilton also said Ferrari had lost valuable points despite having the pace to achieve a one-two finish. He acknowledged the efforts of team principal Fred Vasseur and the staff at Maranello, but said the incident was unnecessary given that he was already leading and that the team had worked hard to bring upgrades to the car.

Sources: Autosport.