Charles Leclerc has denied speculation there is a growing rift with Ferrari team-mate Carlos Sainz, insisting their relationship has been “blown out of proportion”.
The current Ferrari pairing has appeared to enjoy a smooth relationship ever since Sainz arrived from McLaren to replace the outgoing Sebastian Vettel in 2021.
But tensions have threatened to spoil over on numerous occasions this year amid a frustrating campaign for the Italian outfit.
Sainz was left agitated by team orders to remain behind the sister car in both Canada and Austria, while Leclerc was heard complaining about his team-mate’s decision to overtake him on an out lap at the end of Q1 during qualifying at Silverstone.
Prior to that, Leclerc had bemoaned Sainz’s failure to execute a tow tactic in Australia qualifying that cost him on his final run.
However, Leclerc has dismissed the notion that there is friction between himself and Sainz, citing that the pair maintain a “great relationship” outside of the car.
“I am quite active on social media, so I see what’s been said all around,” Leclerc told Autosport.
“It’s blown out of proportion, I think, with Carlos. We have a great relationship.
“Outside the car, we know how to work together, and we get on really well together because we share lots of interests.
“At the same time, there’s a lot of competitiveness in between us two. But we are in Formula 1, and I love the sport because there’s competitiveness. I think it’s great to have that.”
Leclerc adds that heated team radio discussions are to be expected considering the nature of the intense competition.
The Monegasque driver believes the actions of a Ferrari driver are typically scrutinised more, but asserts the only thing that matters is the entire team works collectively.
“Sometimes there’s a bit of discussion over the radio on some situations,” he explained.
“But it is just because we are competitive, and we both want to do the absolute best result possible. These are things that are normal.
“I think it also comes with being a Ferrari driver and being under the spotlight, probably more often than others. But that’s fine.
“In the end, within the team, we know that we have a good relationship and we are working towards the same goals.”
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