Charles Leclerc has admitted that his relationship with Ferrari team-mate Carlos Sainz is “very good”, despite the pair having been very vocal about one another this season during the races.
Off the circuit, the pair are often seen joking around and being friendly with one another; however, very little has been said positively between the two drivers once they’ve gotten into their SF-23.
Miscommunication by the team has largely been to blame, as has the Maranello-based outfit’s strategies.
The pair recently got in each other’s way at the British Grand Prix, with it having not been the first time this season that they’ve had a lap ruined by one another.
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Leclerc is arguably seen as the team’s future and is often asked for suggestions by the team over strategy.
Sainz seemingly wants to be treated the same way and has reportedly asked for more responsibility.
Both are in need of a new contract soon, with their current deals set to expire at the end of 2024.
Leclerc is believed to be close to agreeing to a new deal with Ferrari, whereas Sainz has been linked to Sauber and Audi.
Leclerc has seen a lot of the comments online about his relationship and Sainz, which he’s admitted is “out of proportion to the reality of things”.
The 25-year-old is adamant that his relationship with the Spaniard is positive, but that they’re both just competitive.
“I’m quite active on social media, I’ve heard and read what has been said, and I think it’s all been a bit out of proportion to the reality of things,” Leclerc told the Italian version of Motorsport.com.
“With Carlos, I have a very good relationship, outside the car we know how to work together, and I can say that we also get along well because we share different interests.
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“At the same time between us, there is also a lot of competitiveness. After all, we are in Formula 1. Personally, I love the sport because there is competition and it’s great that it’s like that.
“What has been heard on a few occasions over the radio is something that is part of being competitive, and we both are, we want to get the best possible result and I find this normal.
“Then, we are both Ferrari drivers, and we know we are in the spotlight probably more often than others, but that’s okay. What matters is that within the team we have a good relationship and we work towards the same goals.”