The internal rivalry within the Scuderia Ferrari garage has once again taken center stage in the Formula 1 paddock following sharp comments from the reigning world champion. The stunning victory secured at Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez by Max Verstappen was heavily aided by tactical gifts stemming from an opening-lap battle between the team's two marquee drivers.
The fierce wheel-to-wheel combat during the opening lap of the Mexico City Grand Prix involving Lewis Hamilton and his teammate allowed the dominant Red Bull ace to capitalize on the chaos and cruise to victory. This dramatic incident immediately ignited widespread discussions regarding the Maranello squad's management policy of allowing their star drivers to race each other freely without a clear hierarchy.
Speaking to Viaplay during the subsequent race weekend build-up, the Dutch superstar emphasized that such delicate situations could easily be avoided if team management enforced strict internal guidelines. In his view, housing two top-tier drivers with equal status under the same roof inevitably breeds on-track friction as neither driver is willing to yield.

"I've said it before, and a lot of people often don't agree, but if I was a team principal, I'd never get two number one drivers because then you get things like this," the multi-time world champion stated when analyzing his rival's management style.
He further elaborated that neither elite competitor would back down at the opening corner because both possess the unwavering mindset that they can win every race. Establishing a clear pecking order from the outset would have ensured smoother finishes and guaranteed massive constructors' points rather than risking potential double-elimination scenarios.
In response to the mounting tension following a difficult weekend in Interlagos, team principal Fred Vasseur swiftly gathered both drivers for a closed-door meeting to clear the air. The Italian squad boss confirmed that the matter has been thoroughly addressed, with both competitors refocused on the remaining rounds of the championship battle.



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