In a fiery and unexpected twist, former motorsport icon Danica Patrick has set the Formula 1 world ablaze after a bold interview in which she made controversial claims about the dynamic between seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc. Her sharp remarks have left fans, pundits, and even drivers divided—especially after she hinted that Leclerc may have “sabotaged” Ferrari’s internal unity, leading to the team’s recent struggles.

The Interview That Shook the Paddock

Danica Patrick, known for her no-nonsense attitude and groundbreaking legacy in both IndyCar and NASCAR, rarely comments on Formula 1. But in a surprise appearance on a popular motorsport podcast this week, she broke that silence—and broke it loudly.

When asked about the current state of the F1 grid and the shifting alliances forming off-track, Patrick wasted no time addressing what she described as “the most misunderstood duo in Formula 1 today.”

“I think people are underestimating the power dynamics between Hamilton and Leclerc,” she said. “They’re not rivals in the traditional sense, but there’s something brewing. And I wouldn’t be surprised if Leclerc’s presence, and how he’s handled things internally, has actually damaged Ferrari more than helped.”

The “Duo” That Wasn’t Supposed to Be

Patrick’s use of the word “duo” to describe Hamilton and Leclerc raised eyebrows. While the two are on different teams—Hamilton still with Mercedes and Leclerc leading Ferrari—their careers have often intersected through intense on-track battles and comparisons in the media.

Speculation has grown in recent weeks about Hamilton’s rumored future with Ferrari, including whispers of secret meetings and backdoor deals. Patrick didn’t shy away from addressing that either.

“There’s a lot of talk that Hamilton’s considering Ferrari as a final career chapter,” she said. “But if he steps into that environment now, I think he’ll inherit more chaos than opportunity—and that chaos, in part, is because of Leclerc.”

Sabotage or Mismanagement?

Perhaps the most shocking moment in the interview was when Patrick hinted at “intentional sabotage”—not in the traditional sense of espionage or foul play, but through what she described as “ego-driven misalignment within Ferrari’s garage.”

“Look, I’ve been in racing long enough to know how quickly team chemistry can break down,” Patrick said. “Leclerc’s a great driver, no doubt, but I think his personal ambitions have clashed with Ferrari’s long-term strategy. Whether he realizes it or not, the way he’s managed internal relationships has created fractures.”

Patrick didn’t name specific team members or moments, but her insinuations have left fans reexamining recent Ferrari controversies—from questionable pit strategies to uncharacteristic driver errors.

Fan Reactions: Divided but Engaged

F1 Twitter exploded within hours of the interview being published. Hashtags like #DanicaSpills, #FerrariDrama, and #LeclercSabotage began trending worldwide.

Some fans applauded Patrick’s courage to say what many have only dared to whisper.

“Danica just said what everyone’s been thinking. Ferrari’s been a mess, and no one’s held Leclerc accountable,” one fan tweeted.

Others were quick to defend Leclerc, calling Patrick’s comments “baseless” and “sensationalist.”

“Leclerc is one of the most loyal drivers Ferrari’s had in years. Blaming him for Ferrari’s failure is lazy analysis,” another fan replied.

No Response Yet From Ferrari or Leclerc

As of this writing, neither Ferrari nor Charles Leclerc has responded publicly to Patrick’s comments. Lewis Hamilton, currently preparing for the upcoming Grand Prix, has also remained silent.

But sources close to Ferrari insiders suggest that the team is “disappointed” by the direction of the conversation and hopes to “clarify the situation” in an upcoming press conference.

Is Danica Right?

While Danica Patrick is no stranger to controversy, her insight into motorsport politics adds weight to her words. Whether you agree or not, her interview has reignited conversations about Ferrari’s internal problems—and what the future may hold for Hamilton, Leclerc, and one of the sport’s most storied teams.

One thing is clear: Formula 1 just got a whole lot more dramatic.