What happened: Damon Hill advised Ferrari to designate Lewis Hamilton as its No. 1 driver over Charles Leclerc. Hill argued that establishing a clear team hierarchy around the seven-time champion would streamline operations following recent on-track battles.

Why it matters: The recommendation follows the São Paulo Grand Prix, where Mercedes clinched the 2026 Constructors' Championship and Ferrari fell 126 points behind. Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur previously confirmed the team's rules of engagement remain unchanged, allowing both drivers to race freely despite external debate.

By the numbers: São Paulo Grand Prix: Leclerc P8, Hamilton P9. 2026 Constructors' Championship: Mercedes clinched;

What to watch: Ferrari enters the final stretch of the season seeking to secure second place in the constructors' standings while managing internal parity.

Sources