Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc said he erased all social‑media apps during the bleakest portions of the 2026 Formula 1 season, citing the overwhelming negativity that threatened his focus.
The Surge of Criticism
Ferrari had long endured intense media scrutiny, but the past year’s wave of criticism intensified when superstar Lewis Hamilton joined the team. Though performance rose at the start of 2026, Leclerc struggled to silence the mounting noise.
Monaco and Barcelona Woes
In Monaco, Leclerc’s high hopes for a home‑race triumph turned into disappointment after a late‑race collision. Follow‑up troubles in Barcelona compounded the misery, with hydraulic, gearbox and brake failures leaving him unable to finish. A poor qualifying seal only aggravated the setbacks.
Silence as Strategy
During a podcast interview, Leclerc explained that negative chatter hampers a driver’s ability to deliver. He chose to delete every social‑media app from his phone, refusing to hear the relentless questions that accompany media days.
“When the noise is loud, performance suffers. Many drivers deny or hide the effect, but it’s impossible to isolate yourself entirely,” he said. “I wanted to focus solely on driving and improving the car, not on the comments coming from the press and fans.”
Silverstone’s Redemption
Contrary to the earlier rough patch, Silverstone became a turning point. Leclerc entered the race after a shaky start, yet the team’s setup improved in free practice. The result—a podium finish—reinforced his confidence and belief in the lineup’s potential.
Looking Ahead
Leclerc expressed that the victory was a decisive morale lift, especially against a backdrop of months of struggle. “It demonstrated that perseverance can break a three‑weekend slump,” he noted. The upcoming races will test whether the team can maintain this momentum despite the relentless pressures of the sport.
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