Seven-time Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has criticised Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc over their clash during the opening lap of the Mexico City Grand Prix, describing his approach as a matter of mentality rather than age.

The two Ferrari drivers battled for the lead through the opening corners at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez on Sunday. Leclerc moved ahead after both drivers ran off track at Turn Four, with the Monegasque driver crossing the grass to retain the position.

Hamilton subsequently lost another place to Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who went on to win the race. Leclerc received a five-second penalty for gaining an advantage by leaving the track, while Hamilton eventually finished second and his team-mate fourth.

Speaking after the race, Hamilton said Ferrari had the pace to secure the top two positions but lost the opportunity because of the battle between its drivers.

He questioned Leclerc’s approach, saying he had previously watched similar disputes between the Monegasque driver and former Ferrari team-mate Carlos Sainz allow rival drivers to pull away.

Hamilton said such battles were different when drivers were competing for fourth and fifth positions rather than fighting for victory, adding that the team’s interests should take priority.

He also cited their contrasting approach at the British Grand Prix, saying he could have taken a more aggressive line against Leclerc but instead prioritised the team’s result.

Hamilton called for serious discussions within Ferrari, stressing that both drivers had a responsibility to work together and protect the team’s points.

Leclerc defended his actions, explaining that he had initially considered returning the position but changed his decision after Verstappen moved between the two Ferraris.

He admitted that the five-second penalty was deserved, while maintaining that both drivers had gone beyond the track limits during the incident.

Verstappen said Red Bull had benefited from Ferrari’s internal battle, adding that the contest between the two drivers had cost the Italian team the victory.

Ferrari is expected to address the incident internally before the next round of the championship, the Sao Paulo Grand Prix in Brazil.