Leclerc Reacts to Hamilton’s Arrival: “I’m Unsure…”
The news of Lewis Hamilton’s imminent arrival at Ferrari for the 2025 Formula 1 season has shocked the motorsport world. While fans and experts discuss the possible consequences of this change, Charles Leclerc, the current Ferrari driver who will team with Hamilton, broke his silence and shared his first impressions on the matter.
In a statement following the unveiling of Ferrari’s new car, the SF-24, Leclerc addressed the matter with a mixture of caution and politeness. He acknowledged the importance of Hamilton’s arrival, calling him “an incredible driver, the most successful in history” and emphasizing his vast experience and success on the track.
However, Leclerc expressed uncertainty about the impact of this change on his career and the team’s dynamics. He admitted that negotiations to sign a contract with Hamilton did not come as a surprise to him, as he knew about it even before he signed the new contract. However, he chose not to comment on the matter, mainly out of respect for his current teammate Carlos Sainz, with whom he “spent good years together”.
Leclerc also shared that he has already held a few talks with Hamilton since the deal was announced and made official, highlighting the opportunity to learn from such a talented and successful driver. Acknowledging that having a new teammate always brings challenges and opportunities, he expressed interest in exploring different ways of working with and managing Hamilton.
The question many may be asking is whether Hamilton’s arrival had any impact on negotiations to extend Leclerc’s contract with Ferrari. However, the young manager made it clear that the news did not lead to any changes in his contract negotiations. He emphasized that he was focused on himself and what was best for his career, and that the team’s transparency about the situation was appreciated but not affecting his contractual demands.
As Leclerc and Ferrari prepare for the 2024 Formula 1 season, they will be tasked with joining forces and focusing their energies on the development of the SF-24 and its racing strategy. With Hamilton’s arrival, the Italian team will face new internal dynamics that could shape the future of the sport.
As we prepare for the season, the spotlight will be on Leclerc, Hamilton and Ferrari as they embark on a new journey together. Fans can’t wait to see how this unique lineup of drivers will perform on tracks around the world.