Sebastian Vettel says he has no doubts that new Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc will put him under extra pressure during the 2019 Formula 1 season.
Vettel's long-time team-mate Kimi Raikkonen exited Ferrari at the end of the 2018 season to join Alfa Romeo, making room for rising star Leclerc to take up a seat with the Scuderia.
Leclerc impressed massively during his rookie campaign with Sauber, prompting his promotion to Ferrari after just one year in F1, and for that reason Vettel says his new team-mate needs to be "taken seriously".
"Of course," replied Vettel when asked if Leclerc was a threat. "[He's a] full on rival. He got the seat for a reason. I’ve got to take him very seriously.
"You always have a close rivalry with your team-mate. But priority number one is trying to bring the team forward. Obviously I’ve been around a lot longer compared to him, there are different things here he will have on his plate in the beginning, but he’s a nice kid.
"In a positive way, leave him alone, let him do his job. I’m certain he will be quick enough and put me under pressure, so we’ll see how it goes."
Asked if he might need to change his approach to how he interacts with his team-mate following several years alongside Raikkonen, who is famous for being incredibly laid-back, the four-time champion admitted it would take some time to understand Leclerc.
"I don’t know him as a team-mate yet, so…everyone is different," added Vettel. "I don’t know. I’m taking it quite straightforward. I’m not the one starting any problems. I don’t expect Charles to start any problems. I’m actually looking forward to it."
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