Charles Leclerc has reiterated that clinching titles at Ferrari remains his ‘sole objective’, in what appears to be a subtle caution to his future teammate Lewis Hamilton.
The latter is set to replace Carlos Sainz starting from the next season under a multi-year contract with the revered Italian team.
Hamilton, eyeing an unprecedented eighth world championship title at Ferrari, aims to break the drought that has plagued the team since Kimi Raikkonen’s triumph in 2007.
Nonetheless, Leclerc seems equally resolute in establishing himself as Ferrari’s leading contender.
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In his first public statement since Hamilton’s impending transfer to Ferrari was confirmed, Leclerc stated: “My sole objective is to clinch the championship.
Winning is the only outcome that satisfies me; second place isn’t my aim.”
He added, “While maintaining optimism, it’s crucial to set realistic goals.
Despite our collective aspiration to win, considering our position last year where Red Bull held a significant advantage, our primary focus is narrowing the gap.”
Reports earlier this week suggested discontent within Leclerc’s camp regarding Ferrari’s decision to enlist Hamilton for 2025.
According to Corriere dello Sport, Leclerc was informed of Hamilton’s arrival only after he had extended his contract with Ferrari beyond 2024.
The transition will also see Sainz depart, who has fostered a productive partnership with Leclerc since his arrival from McLaren in 2021.
Together, they have contributed to Ferrari’s resurgence, propelling the team from a challenging period to sixth place in the Constructors’ Championship before Sainz’s arrival.
Reflecting on his camaraderie with his departing Spanish teammate, Leclerc remarked, “We share a special bond; beyond the track, we’re friends.
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Spending extensive time together, with 24 races, I see Carlos more than my own family.”
Despite the potential for rivalry between Leclerc and Hamilton next season, Piero Ferrari, son of the legendary team founder Enzo and a board member at Ferrari, downplayed the likelihood of any internal discord.
Speaking to Italian journalist Leo Turrini, he expressed confidence in Leclerc as the future champion, affirming Ferrari’s faith in him, while regarding Hamilton simply as Hamilton, seeing no reason for conflict.