Charles Leclerc believes Lewis Hamilton’s record of helping multiple teams to win titles in Formula 1 will prove to be a valuable asset that enhances Ferrari’s prospects.
Hamilton’s much-anticipated venture with Ferrari is edging closer, with his debut outing in red scheduled to take place at the squad’s Fiorano test track later this month.
The Briton cut short his long and illustrious association with Mercedes to make the move to F1’s most storied team as he aims to end his career with a record eighth title.
However, Ferrari is enduring its longest run without one as it hasn’t triumphed since scooping the Constructors in 2008, coinciding with Hamilton’s maiden championship.
And despite showing progress under Frederic Vasseur’s guidance, Ferrari came up short again in 2024 as McLaren ended Red Bull and Mercedes’ recent stranglehold.
Leclerc, though, is certain that access to the methodologies that have seen Hamilton take an unrivalled 105 victories will boost Ferrari’s attempts to return to the pinnacle.
“With how much success Lewis has had, it’s going to be incredibly interesting to hear him and see how he used to work with other very successful teams,” Leclerc told RacingNews365.
“Whether he was with Mercedes and McLaren before, he won championships with both. For sure, it will pull us upward, help us learn and see different perspectives in our ways of working.
Ferrari ‘super motivated’ with Hamilton’s arrival
Leclerc admitted the external enthusiasm surrounding Hamilton’s Ferrari chapter has been matched inside the team as preparations build towards the new season.
“Everybody’s already super motivated,” he added.
“But when you have a seven-time champion joining the team and, obviously, this is the biggest move of the last many, many, many years, that boosts the team.
“Everybody’s proud of being part of that story, and we all want to make that story as successful as possible, and for me, the most beneficial to Ferrari.”
Leclerc eager to beat Hamilton
But while he reiterated his desire to learn from Hamilton, Leclerc is eager to come out on top in the intra-team duel to ensure he is best placed to be Ferrari’s next champion.
“Then, of course, there’s me as well,” he continued. I want this story to be super good and successful.
“However, I also want to be part of that story and add my bit to it, having the dream in my mind of being a Formula 1 World Champion, so it’s going to be super interesting.
“I’ve always said that I’m super excited because, on the one hand, I’m going to learn from one of the best, and on the other, it’s also a great opportunity for me to be able to show what I can do against such an incredible driver.
“I’m always trying to be on top of my game, but, with Lewis, it motivates me a lot as well.”
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