Lewis Hamilton has denied calling for changes at Ferrari despite two tough weekends in Monza and Madrid.
He trails championship leader Kimi Antonelli by 101 points with nine races remaining, having scored only eight points in the last two events.
At the Italian Grand Prix, Ferrari introduced an upgraded engine, but Hamilton finished sixth while Leclerc crashed out. A brake issue then forced Hamilton’s first retirement of the season in Spain.
Italian media reported this week that the seven-time world champion had been urging team principal Frederic Vasseur to make operational changes, but Hamilton addressed the rumours on Instagram on Thursday.
“I’ve seen some of the stories circulating and I want to clarify: I’ve never asked for anyone on my team to be replaced,” Hamilton wrote. “Everyone I work with puts in maximum effort daily, and that dedication drives us forward.”
“I always strive to empower people and help them reach their best, or at least see the best in themselves. While I don’t always succeed, that’s my intention and purpose. We collaborate as a team, and that will persist.”
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Hamilton was forced to retire early at the Spanish Grand Prix
Hamilton called for “rules of engagement” at Ferrari after being forced wide into the gravel by teammate Leclerc at the Italian Grand Prix on the opening lap.
The British driver stated “the buck starts with Fred (Vasseur)” before Ferrari held talks where Leclerc admitted fault for the incident.
Hopes of a record-breaking eighth world title have faded since the summer break, with Hamilton not scoring a podium in the last five races.
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Martin Brundle and Nico Rosberg debate who was at fault for the recent collision between Hamilton and Charles Leclerc
“I think Antonelli and Mercedes are unstoppable this year,” Hamilton told Sky Sports F1 after the Spanish Grand Prix.
“They’ve done a phenomenal job and deserve it.”