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kyle.archer

For Ferrari and in general, nothing is riding on whether Lewis Hamilton or Charles Leclerc leads the Scuderia in the drivers’ standings – but personal pride is at stake and, most importantly, the Briton and the Monegasque will want bragging rights in their endless quest to prove themselves as the No1 in Maranello.

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There are two directions to go, and they sit at opposite ends of the spectrum.

Both McLaren and Red Bull have won the Drivers’ and Constructors’ in recent years, and they did it with very contrasting management styles.

At McLaren, Zak Brown took the approach of implementing ‘Papaya Rules’ that had to be followed by both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. Both drivers had to agree to serve the team above all, and avoid unnecessary battling on track. Rules of engagement were drafted.

Meanwhile, Red Bull have taken the opposite approach in Max Verstappen’s dominant era. They have pooled all resources into prioritising the Dutch driver, making no secret of the fact that he is the team leader with a supporting teammate.

Ferrari need to outline their very own ‘Scarlet Rules’

It has previously been suggested that Ferrari should prioritise Hamilton in their bid to end their F1 title drought.

But it’s hard to imagine Leclerc accepting that decision without backlash, especially as he has been part of Ferrari’s project for over a decade.

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g74c5hp25g

Putting aside whichever driver I support, Leclerc was being totally reckless and selfish in making such an aggressive move on a team mate who was in first place. All he could see was me, me, me. If there was ever a time for reminding himeself there’s no i in team this was it. I hope he gets penalised by the team.

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Therefore, it seems Vasseur’s mind is already made up. Ferrari should follow the footsteps of McLaren and their recent title success.

Vasseur once mocked McLaren’s ‘Papaya Rules’, jokingly stating that he prefers mango for breakfast. But Ferrari’s very own ‘Scarlet Rules’ should be on the cards.

It became clear in Mexico that Leclerc and Hamilton need clearly defined rules of engagement to avoid costing the team any more victories. Vasseur needs to enforce his leadership and make both drivers agree, leaving no grey areas or wiggle room for excuses.

Ferrari could challenge for the 2027 title, but only if Vasseur puts an end to their driver friction sooner rather than later.