Source: Official Team Post via X
Chandhok Critiques Ferrari's Strategy, Suggests Lambiase-Level Communication
Karun Chandhok has criticized Ferrari's strategy and communication during the Singapore Grand Prix, where Lewis Hamilton's decision not to pit proved costly. He compares Ferrari's pit wall communication unfavorably to Red Bull's Gianpiero Lambiase.
Karun Chandhok has weighed in on the strategic missteps that marred Lewis Hamilton’s performance at the Singapore Grand Prix. Hamilton had the chance to pit under a virtual safety car, prompted by Lance Stroll’s retirement, but chose to stay out in a misguided attempt to maintain track position. This decision backfired as he was overtaken by Charles Leclerc and then by Kimi Antonelli and the two McLarens.
Chandhok has questioned the communication from Ferrari’s pit wall, suggesting that Hamilton might have benefited from more effective guidance. While both Hamilton and Ferrari agreed that the pit decision was ultimately made by Hamilton himself, Chandhok believes the pit wall could have provided better support, given their access to the race data that Hamilton lacked from the cockpit.
The former driver noted that Hamilton was visibly frustrated, particularly when Ferrari opted not to swap him with Leclerc when he caught up on fresher soft tyres. This decision to hold position further compounded the strategic blunder.
Chandhok drew a comparison to the efficient communication between Red Bull's Max Verstappen and his engineer Gianpiero Lambiase. Despite radio issues during the race, Lambiase effectively guided Verstappen, even instructing him to stay silent if he wanted to pit. This kind of clear and decisive communication, Chandhok argues, is what Ferrari needs to develop.
Lambiase’s long-standing partnership with Verstappen, spanning over a decade, has cultivated a deep understanding that Ferrari’s Carlo Santi, who took over from Riccardo Adami, has yet to establish with Hamilton. As the season progresses, Verstappen is set to transition to working with Tom Hart, Lambiase’s successor, as Lambiase prepares to join McLaren.
Hamilton did not speak to the media post-race due to feeling unwell, and some of his radio communications during the critical moments under the VSC were not broadcasted, leaving some gaps in the public's understanding of the situation. Chandhok’s comments highlight the importance of effective communication in racing strategy, suggesting that Ferrari could learn from Red Bull’s approach to pit wall-driver dynamics.