Between developments, ADUO and derby
During the first four GPs of this 2026 Formula 1 World Championship Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton have often found themselves battling each other on track, providing spectacle and also some thrills for the Ferrari fans. In the absence of a real chance to beat Mercedes – at least for now – the fans of the red team have settled for the direct challenge between their idols. But what would happen if, as some speculate, thanks to ADUO and developments during the season Ferrari actually found itself involved in the fight for the Drivers’ title?
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The premise is that all Cavallino fans would sign with their eyes closed for this possibility considering the almost two decades of title drought Maranello is facing. Inevitably, however, the problem of how to manage the confrontation between Leclerc and Hamilton would arise, avoiding that their mutual taking points from each other ends up damaging the team. This eventuality was discussed by former British driver Jolyon Palmer in the latest episode of the podcast F1 Nation with host Tom Clarkson. Both agree that team principal Fred Vasseur – who so far has almost never imposed team orders on the two drivers – would not be able to ‘contain’ their confrontation.
The role of Vasseur
“I think the one between Leclerc and Hamilton could become [a rivalry] heated – Clarkson observed – I believe Lewis has a fierce competitiveness that leaves nothing to chance. I’m not saying he is unfair in any way, but simply that level of fierce competitiveness would end up causing problems”. An analysis Palmer shared, especially if the two red flag bearers were to find themselves, during the year, at the wheel of the best car on the grid.
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“There is also the question of ego: ego is inherent in all drivers – Palmer emphasized – you don’t have to accept second place, you have to think: ‘I am the best, this is my title’. We have Hamilton and Leclerc: one has won seven titles, the other is a generational talent who has not yet won one. I don’t think there is a way Fred [Vasseur] could manage the situation if they had the same pace and the best car“. However, the red fans hope sooner or later to be able to face these problems…
