In a stunning development ahead of the European leg of the 2025 Formula 1 season, internal tensions within Scuderia Ferrari have erupted as Team Principal Frederic Vasseur has reportedly issued a stern warning to seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton regarding his on-track behavior towards teammate Charles Leclerc.

Hamilton, who joined Ferrari at the start of the 2025 season in a historic move from Mercedes, has had a mixed start with the Italian team. But what was initially seen as a dream duo of experience and youth now appears to be facing early friction — and the situation is escalating.

📉 Trouble in Maranello

According to sources close to the team, Vasseur pulled Hamilton aside following the Spanish Grand Prix, where the British driver was once again involved in a series of aggressive maneuvers that nearly forced Leclerc off track in Turn 4. This follows similar incidents in Imola and Monaco, where both Ferrari drivers fiercely contested position, raising questions about internal harmony.

The breaking point, insiders say, came during a heated debrief session in Barcelona, in which Vasseur reportedly told Hamilton to “stop making things difficult” for Leclerc and to “respect team dynamics.”

🗣️ Vasseur Speaks Out

Though Ferrari has yet to release an official statement, Vasseur was unusually candid in a post-race interview when asked about the incident.

“Every driver wants to win, that’s normal,” he said. “But we are a team first. If we start hurting ourselves from within, we won’t beat the others. We’ve had a very clear conversation about what is expected from both drivers.”

Pressed further on whether Hamilton was cooperating with team strategy, Vasseur gave a diplomatic but firm response: “I believe Lewis understands the values of Ferrari. We race hard, but we race smart — not against each other.”

🔥 Leclerc’s Frustration Builds

Charles Leclerc, who has been the face of Ferrari’s future for years, appeared visibly frustrated during the post-race press conference.

“I love racing, I love competition,” said the Monegasque. “But I think some situations could’ve been avoided. We’re here to fight for championships, not to fight each other. I’ll leave it at that.”

This marks the third race in five where Leclerc has made cryptic comments about internal team politics, signaling growing discontent over his treatment as Hamilton continues to assert dominance within the garage.

🧠 Hamilton Unfazed

For his part, Hamilton brushed off the controversy in typical fashion.

“I race how I race,” he told Sky Sports F1. “I’ve always said I won’t change just because I’m in a new team. Charles is incredibly quick, and we push each other. That’s what brings out the best in both of us.”

Hamilton’s fans defended his approach, calling it “classic Lewis” — fearless, uncompromising, and unapologetically competitive. However, critics argue that his refusal to adapt could risk alienating Ferrari’s long-standing infrastructure and Leclerc’s loyal support.

💬 Reaction From the Paddock

The F1 paddock is abuzz with speculation. Former world champion Nico Rosberg, who famously clashed with Hamilton at Mercedes, weighed in during the Sky Sports broadcast.

“This reminds me of 2016. It starts with tension on track, then builds in the garage, then explodes,” Rosberg warned. “Ferrari must be very careful. You’ve got two alpha drivers. If you don’t manage them, the season can derail quickly.”

Meanwhile, fans online are split. Some are thrilled by the drama and believe it’s exactly the fire Ferrari needs to dethrone Red Bull. Others fear it’s a repeat of past internal conflicts that cost Ferrari multiple titles.

🏁 What’s Next?

With the Canadian Grand Prix around the corner, all eyes will be on Ferrari. Will Vasseur’s warning realign the team’s priorities, or is this just the beginning of a full-blown civil war?

One thing is certain — Ferrari’s 2025 season just got a whole lot more interesting.