Charles Leclerc has revealed that he’s “very happy” to be team-mates with Carlos Sainz, but that he’d be open to having Lewis Hamilton alongside him.
Leclerc and Hamilton have been two of the most discussed names during ‘silly season’ this year, with the pair being linked with each other’s seat.
There was rumours at the start of the season that Leclerc had been holding secret conversations with Mercedes, something both parties quashed.
The talks were supposedly taking place should Hamilton move to Ferrari, an option which was reportedly offered to the seven-time World Champion by Ferrari chairman John Elkann.
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Again, though, both parties have denied rumours of an offer.
Instead, Hamilton looks all but certain to remain with Mercedes next season, whilst it appears that Leclerc’s loyalty for the future is with Ferrari.
There were some rumours that Hamilton could even partner Leclerc at the Maranello-based team and replace Carlos Sainz.
Leclerc was actually asked if he’d be happy to have Hamilton as a team-mate, something the Monegasque admitted “wouldn’t bother” him.
However, he stressed that he’s more than happy with Sainz partnering him, with Leclerc respecting how “super competitive” the Spaniard is.
“I like racing with the best, so it wouldn’t bother me,” Leclerc said.
“I don’t want to be misunderstood.
“I’m very happy with Carlos, who is super competitive. Even our frictions are fair and normal, we always push each other and that’s good and improves us.”
Leclerc actually qualified behind Sainz on Saturday at the Dutch Grand Prix, with the Monegasque managing just ninth on the grid.
Sainz on the other hand, secured sixth, ahead of not only Leclerc but also Sergio Perez.
Hamilton is behind all three of the drivers named, with the seven-time World Champion having been eliminated in Q2.
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The Mercedes driver will start Sunday’s race from P13, following a disastrous session.
It was Max Verstappen who claimed pole position yet again though, with the Dutchman simply being in a complete league of his own.
He claimed pole by six-tenths of a second, to further extend his dominance.