Italian media reacts strongly following Elkann's criticism of drivers.

      "The types of scandals Ferrari meticulously sidesteps"

      Ferrari president John Elkann’s remarkable public reprimand of his Formula 1 drivers continues to make headlines in Italy, sparking debate among the country’s leading sports newspapers. Following his remarks in Milan that Ferrari’s drivers should "speak less" and "consider not just themselves, but also Ferrari," many in the paddock speculate that Elkann’s frustrations were primarily directed at Lewis Hamilton.

      In Corriere della Sera, Daniele Sparisci commented that the presidential criticism "was directed specifically at Lewis." He observed, "Some of Charles’s remarks might have been irritating, but the real message was for Hamilton. The honeymoon phase is over."

      "Elkann is frustrated with his performance and certain attitudes. Hamilton, who has yet to reach the podium, frequently expresses complaints—about everything from internal reports to FIA penalties. In Brazil, he referred to the stewards as a ‘joke’ and was hit with a five-second penalty for a collision with Colapinto. These are the types of scandals Ferrari diligently avoids."

      On the other hand, Carlo Vanzini from Sky Italia called for calm, suggesting the entire team, including management, should now remain quiet and regroup. "Ferrari’s disappointing statistics, both in comparison to competitors and their own drivers, should prompt everyone in Maranello to understand that perhaps remaining silent for a while is the best course of action," he stated. "Collect your thoughts, resolve issues, and finally deliver a car that fans can truly admire."

      At the same time, Luigi Perna in La Gazzetta dello Sport shifted the spotlight from the drivers to the team’s wider shortcomings. "They’re the only leading team that hasn’t clinched a single race this season," Perna pointed out. "In fact, their last win was the 2024 Mexican GP with Carlos Sainz—the very driver management let go to make space for Hamilton. Ferrari has now endured 25 races without a victory, marking the sixth-worst winless streak in its history."

      Amid fresh speculation that Elkann remains unconvinced by team principal Frederic Vasseur, he told Corriere dello Sport that he still backs him—for now. "He’s entirely focused on his role—ensuring the team can return to the top," Elkann remarked. He then made a relevant comparison to Ferrari’s success in endurance racing. "We’re extremely pleased with the significant victory in the WEC championship, which came during a challenging year and was achievable due to our unity."