Charles Leclerc has expressed that he is unconcerned with team-mate Lewis Hamilton’s vocal intent to have his “DNA” incorporated into Ferrari’s 2026 Formula 1 car.
Ferrari has been in action over the three-week gap between rounds as both drivers were present in Mugello to run the revised suspension that will debut on the SF-25.
But with Ferrari trailing a substantial 238 points behind McLaren, the Italian marque’s ceiling is poised to be limited to guaranteeing that it avoids a winless campaign.
That has prompted Hamilton to divulge that his overriding attention is now on 2026, when extensive changes to the chassis and engine regulations will be introduced.
The Briton, who has endured a tough start to his Ferrari venture, revealed he is working with the team’s designers to ensure the SF-25’s successor is more to his liking.
However, Leclerc, now in his seventh season with the Maranello-based squad, has maintained that he isn’t worried that might come at a compromise to his prospects.
“I’m not concerned at all because it’s always a big talking point outside the team,” Leclerc told media including Motorsport Week.
“Within the team, we’ve got all the tools to adapt a car to my way in terms of driving style or to Lewis’ style.
“So I don’t think that’s the problem, and I just want the fastest car possible next year.
“That’s exactly what Lewis wants, and then wherever we are next year, I’ll set up the car in a way that I like, and Lewis will do just the same.”
Leclerc urges Ferrari to focus on maximum performance
Leclerc has reiterated that constructing the most competitive car possible under the new guidelines should take precedence at Ferrari over either driver’s preferences.
“I’m really not worried about it,” the Monegasque continued.
“I think we are in a time where, now in Formula 1, the engineers and with where the technology is at, we just need the fastest car.
“We just put the fastest car on track, and then we’ve got all the freedom available.
“It’s not like back in 10 or 15 years ago where you were a bit stuck into a corner in terms of balance and you didn’t have the tools to make the car go faster.
“Now we do have those tools, so I’m definitely not worried.”
READ MORE – Ferrari insists 2025 F1 car not built around Lewis Hamilton or Charles Leclerc
Discussion about this post