Former Formula 1 champion Jacques Villeneuve has called on Ferrari to prioritize Lewis Hamilton in the 2026 drivers’ title fight. Villeneuve made the comments after Hamilton’s recent strong results moved him into second place in the standings. The 1997 world champion said the team must focus on the Briton to have any chance of success.
Villeneuve spoke on Sky Sports’ The F1 Show podcast. He argued that the gap between Hamilton and teammate Charles Leclerc justifies ending equal treatment.
“Ferrari is in a position to choose a driver over another because Ferrari has to focus on Lewis if they want a small chance of winning,” Villeneuve said. He added that Leclerc was given too much responsibility too soon and is not prepared for Hamilton’s challenge.
Hamilton sits 41 points behind leader Kimi Antonelli after finishing second in Canada and Monaco and winning in Barcelona. Team principal Fred Vasseur declined to discuss favoring one driver when asked after the Spanish Grand Prix.
Leclerc said the team’s upgrades are working and pledged to return to the front soon. At least 15 races remain in the season.
