For too many years, Ferrari has watched others triumph in Formula 1, like a fallen noble observing from afar the lights of a ball to which it is no longer invited. A fact that hurts more than one might think. The 2024 Formula 1 season saw the Prancing Horse return to contention for a title. The constructors’ championship was fought until the final race in Abu Dhabi, though the trophy now adorns the display case in Woking. No matter; there’s always next time. Dwelling on the subject serves no purpose anymore. Charles Leclerc suffered greatly from this defeat as the Monegasque driver believed in it like never before.
Just recall his reaction on the final team radio after crossing the finish line of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in third place. The result of a stunning comeback, which, as we know, was not enough due to Lando Norris’s victory. The Monegasque pounded his fists on the steering wheel throughout the in-lap. His voice was choked with the despair of someone who refused to accept a bitter result. Enduring defeat is part of the game. True. But when the winner is someone you could have beaten, swallowing yet another bitter pill isn’t so easy.
In 2025, Charles Leclerc will face his seventh Formula 1 season. He has achieved numerous pole positions, 26, to be exact. The victories, however, are “only” eight, considering that he has always driven a car incapable of consistently fighting for wins throughout the championship. Marrying Ferrari’s cause was never simple, and he knew this well when he signed the contract and its subsequent renewals. His desire to win alongside the Maranello team remains intact, and the goal for the upcoming season is clear: to finish ahead of everyone and become world champion with the Prancing Horse.
Charles Leclerc will have Lewis Hamilton by his side starting with the 2025 Formula 1 season. Much has been discussed about the hypothetical relationship between the two. Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur believes he can manage the famous “two roosters in the henhouse,” just as he did with Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc. However, the situation is slightly different. No offense to Carlos Sainz, but the Briton is in a league of his own. We are talking about a seven-time Formula 1 world champion who has not come to relax but to win, or at least that’s his goal. It will therefore be fascinating to see how this relationship is managed.
Especially if Project 677, expected to be named SF-25, turns out to be a car capable of performing at its best and giving Ferrari’s drivers the chance to fight for both Formula 1 world titles. Charles Leclerc is pure talent, just like Lewis Hamilton. And this is precisely the factor that could create problems. Both want to win and will do whatever it takes to stay ahead of the other at all times. In general, reflecting on Lewis Hamilton’s stellar career, one fact stands out: his consistently fair behavior, in contrast to other champions.
Yes, because unsportsmanlike conduct or driving beyond the limits has never been part of his repertoire. This is a trait worth emphasizing. In this respect, Max Verstappen is entirely different. Think back to 2021 when, in his battle with Lewis Hamilton, he adopted an aggressive approach once he took the lead in the drivers’ standings, with maneuvers aimed at contact. Charles Leclerc, too, has experienced this approach and has recently reflected on the subject, considering a hypothetical future where he might find himself contending for a championship.
Racing by Max Verstappen’s rules isn’t exactly Charles Leclerc’s style. However, he declares himself ready to adapt strategically. Something akin to what Max Verstappen did with Lando Norris when the Briton was fighting for the drivers’ championship. Charles Leclerc’s mentality is ready for a change because, while fairness must prevail, there are times when aggressiveness and a success-driven approach can make the difference. The Monegasque driver is tough. He knows how to fight fiercely and can’t wait to do so with anyone, provided Ferrari gives him the chance.
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