2016 Formula 1 champion Nico Rosberg says it is "not feasible" for Ferrari to prioritise Lewis Hamilton over Charles Leclerc in the 2026 title race.
Ferrari entered the Italian Grand Prix weekend on the back of a chaotic Dutch Grand Prix, during which the team seemed reluctant to enforce team orders to allow Hamilton to pass Leclerc, despite the Monegasque driver being on a different strategy.
Speaking to Sky Sports F1 following qualifying, Rosberg addressed suggestions that Ferrari should back the seven-time champion in the 2026 title fight.
"They can't do that," Rosberg, who was partnered with Hamilton at Mercedes from 2013 to 2016, said during the Sky Sports F1 broadcast at Monza.
"They have two No. 1 drivers, both on a similar level. You cannot, now in the middle of the season, put everything just working towards Lewis. It's way too early, and that doesn't make sense.
"Of course, for Lewis that would enhance his chances to win the championship because in the last five races the Ferrari drivers were all over each other almost every race. Of course, it costs them performance, and Lewis championship points eventually, but the team cannot do that at this stage against Leclerc. It's not feasible."
Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari
Photo by: Alessio Morgese
Prior to the Italian Grand Prix, Hamilton was 59 points behind championship leader Kimi Antonelli in the drivers' standings, whereas Leclerc was 87 points behind.
"It is a big race for the championship today," Rosberg added. "It's the chance for George, Lewis, actually also Lando, to make up some big points. But Lando is kind of out of it today, he has not been fast enough this weekend.
"Lewis also, we were expecting a bit more from him in qualifying but, nevertheless, he's still fourth, has a good race car so he can be on the podium. Not sure he can fight for the win."
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Originally published by motorsport.com —
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