Charles Leclerc sheds light on his phone call with Ferrari president John Elkann after the Brazilian GP

On the eve of the Las Vegas GP, Charles Leclerc chose to clear the air. After days of discussions, controversies, and conflicting interpretations surrounding John Elkann’s famous statement that “drivers should talk less and drive more,” the Monegasque explained that those words were actually part of a broader message and, in his view, even positive.

The spark had erupted after the disaster in Interlagos, where Ferrari left with a double zero, dropping to fourth in the Constructors’ Championship. Charles Leclerc, eliminated at the start due to a contact between Oscar Piastri and Kimi Antonelli, had still been mentioned in the Ferrari president’s comment, generating criticism and tension.

But now Charles Leclerc himself reveals what happened behind the scenes: “John called me before the interview, as he does after every race,” he told the media in Las Vegas. “He explained that the message was meant to be positive: saying that we all need to do better is clear. We are aligned.”

The Monegasque emphasized a key point: John Elkann, in his experience, is one of the few figures who maintains a direct approach even when things get complicated. “When you are in F3 or F2 it is easy to find sincere people. In Formula 1, much less so. John has always been honest with me. If I make a mistake or the team does, he says so.”

Charles Leclerc also discouraged overly literal readings of the president’s words: “You have to understand the intention, not just the phrase. The goal was to push us, not criticize us. And I always take criticism constructively.”

Those expecting internal cracks will be disappointed. The Monegasque speaks of a united team, ready to respond. “We breathe Ferrari. I want to do more myself. There are no bad feelings, no issues between me, John, or the team. The will is shared: to improve and get back in front.”

At a time when pressure around the Scuderia is extremely high and every word generates headlines, Charles Leclerc chose the most direct path: lowering the tone and reaffirming cohesion. In a season finale this delicate, this message is as valuable as any technical upgrade.