Ralf Schumacher says Hamilton must beat Leclerc to lead Ferrari

Ralf Schumacher has said Lewis Hamilton must outperform Charles Leclerc to be recognised as Ferrari's number one driver, arguing that Hamilton is "not fast enough" and is causing the flashpoints between the pair. He compared the situation with his brother Michael's time at Ferrari, when he had clear number one status.

Schumacher's view counters that of Damon Hill, who called for Hamilton to be made Ferrari's number one, saying Lewis would deliver if the team backed him fully. The tensions between Hamilton and Leclerc, which erupted at the Mexican Grand Prix, have since eased, but have prompted debate over whether Ferrari needs a clear hierarchy. Former driver Felipe Massa has suggested something is not right within the team.

Ferrari held talks at the Brazilian round, where team principal Fred Vasseur reminded both drivers that the team comes first. Ferrari is in a strong position to secure second in the Constructors' Championship with three rounds remaining.