“Mr. Ferrari”: Lewis Hamilton jokes about Charles Leclerc during Australian GP press conference. Lewis Hamilton shares what surprised him about “Mr. Ferrari,” Charles Leclerc.

Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc’s friendship is going great: at the Australian GP press conference, the Briton joked about “Mr. Ferrari.” The two, as we know, have great mutual respect both on and off the track, share hobbies and passions, and talk a lot. An idyllic relationship, at least on the surface, which is exactly what Maranello needs: the Prancing Horse is “bigger” than any single driver.

It’s the eve of Melbourne, the first Grand Prix of the new Formula 1 season. In less than twenty-four hours, Free Practice 1 will begin, kicking off the on-track action at Albert Park. For the SF-25, it’s the moment of truth—no more hiding, just pure performance. The goal is to challenge McLaren and stay in the championship fight.

To do this, Frédéric Vasseur has entrusted his cars to the duo of Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton. A brand-new pairing: one is a young driver who has matured and gained experience, while the other is a veteran who has already won everything. History tells us that intra-team relationships with such dynamics don’t always remain stable. However, #16 and #44 might just prove everyone wrong.

Charles Leclerc is “Mr. Ferrari”: Lewis Hamilton admires the Monegasque
Speaking about his teammate, Lewis Hamilton revealed what impressed him the most: “Besides his hair? And his eyes? He’s a good-looking guy! I’d say his work ethic. It’s been really impressive. I didn’t know—of course, you can’t know what happens behind the scenes. I think every driver works very hard, but everyone has a different approach. It’s been really interesting.” – the seven-time Formula 1 world champion pointed out.

“It’s not very different from mine. He’s a hard worker who gives his all. Obviously, he’s been part of the team for a long time. It’s his second team, but he has had an incredible journey with Ferrari. He really is Mr. Ferrari! It’s been great working alongside him, and I’m looking forward to doing so all year.” – he added.

Leclerc’s reaction: “Ferrari is bigger than the two of us”
Journalists in Melbourne then asked Charles Leclerc if he feared Hamilton might overtake him in Ferrari’s hierarchy. “No, because at Ferrari, there is no space for just one, specific driver. Ferrari is bigger than any driver. It has always been that way. That’s what makes Ferrari so special.”