Leclerc impresses Lewis Hamilton
The seven-time world champion is impressed by the progress of the young Monegasque driver who, according to Hamilton, has taken on the role of leader at Ferrari.
Arriving at Alfa Romeo Sauber in 2018 (following his titles in GP3 and F2), the young Charles Leclerc only needed a few Grand Prix to impress both the paddock and observers. This single season was enough for the leaders of the Scuderia Ferrari to recruit the young Monegasque. Since then, his performances have not gone unnoticed, especially by a certain Lewis Hamilton.
« Charles’ progress is incredible, he is becoming the leader of a phenomenal team,” said the current Mercedes driver ahead of the United States Grand Prix during the drivers’ press conference. « Of course, him and his team went through a difficult period (the Englishman referring to the catastrophic 2020 season experienced by Scuderia) but they are only getting better. They have gained speed since then and are putting pressure on those at the front of the pack ».
However, as fast as he is, Leclerc is still prone to mistakes. The Ferrari driver, for example, missed a start from pole position in Monaco this season following his crash in Q3. He also had to fight his way up the pack in the Styrian Grand Prix after a contact in the first lap. A good result was also waiting for him in Russia before number sixteen spun out, on his own, in the rain.
Hamilton prefers to attribute these mistakes to youth. He is still so young, I think he is following his own path and will continue to improve. He will become more efficient and has already shown great potential. He is in a great team to get better and I look forward to experiencing more fierce battles against him in the future.
