Fast, skilled, rivals: Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc ignite Ferrari’s hopes in F1. A brand-new pairing, probably the strongest on the grid, united by the dream of a world title. When it counts, only one of them can become champion. In the meantime, however, things between them are going great. Shared interests, common passions, and mutual respect: the Briton’s perspective on their relationship.
Formula 1 history is filled with great rivalries, often within the same team. Highly skilled drivers capable of any maneuver to prevail over their closest competitor. For years, this led many to believe that having two roosters in the same henhouse was not an ideal dynamic for a team. Frédéric Vasseur wants to prove that assumption wrong.
Talent can coexist with talent. One can push the other to bring out their best, in a relentless pursuit of perfection. Sparks will fly, no doubt about it, and even the drivers admit it. But driving for Ferrari also means knowing when to set aside personal pride to become part of a greater story.
Hamilton: “Many things in common with Leclerc”
Lewis Hamilton spoke about his relationship with Charles Leclerc: “Working with Charles has never been a problem. There have been no arguments or anything like that. He obviously knew I was coming here, but even before it was announced, Charles and I always talked during race weekends.”
“I think there has always been mutual respect between us. And I believe that from the beginning, we knew we had a few things in common, like the fact that he loves playing the piano—definitely better than me—but we are both passionate about music and fashion. So, outside the world of racing, we have things to talk about, and we have gotten along very well.”
Ferrari, an SF-25 to get into trouble and have fun
The Briton explains that their friendship has deepened throughout 2024: “Last year, we spent a couple of evenings together. We had a great time and laughed a lot. We will definitely get into trouble and have some fun during our time here, but even today, just working together on set, it was a pleasure.”
“This year, we will definitely push each other and move forward together as teammates to try to bring Ferrari to the top.” In the meantime, the two are preparing for their first Fiorano shakedown: on February 19, both will take part in Maranello’s filming day.
