Lewis Hamilton warned about Charles Leclerc when Ferrari ‘hostilities…read more
Johnny Herbert, a former FIA steward and three-time Grand Prix winner, has warned Lewis Hamilton that Charles Leclerc will not shy away from competition when the two drivers face off in the 2025 F1 season. Herbert emphasized that Leclerc, having successfully managed the pressure of competing against a four-time World Champion like Sebastian Vettel, will be fully prepared to challenge Hamilton when they go head-to-head at Ferrari.
Hamilton, who recently made the move from Mercedes to Ferrari, officially began his new chapter with the Scuderia this week. Leclerc, an accomplished driver with three wins and a third-place finish in the 2024 Drivers’ Championship, will be Hamilton’s teammate at Ferrari. This marks a significant moment in Hamilton’s career, as he has long harbored the dream of racing for the legendary Italian team, and now he is set to live that dream.
Herbert, reflecting on Leclerc’s past performances, noted that the young Monegasque driver had previously outshone the highly experienced Vettel, who was a four-time World Champion at the time, when the two were teammates at Ferrari. Leclerc’s ability to rise above the pressure and defeat Vettel in the internal team battle proved his resilience and talent. Herbert believes that Leclerc’s experience in handling such internal team rivalries will serve him well when facing the formidable Hamilton.
Herbert went on to explain that Leclerc, while respectful of Hamilton’s abilities, will not be intimidated by him. He will be determined to fight and ensure that he stays at the top of his game throughout the season. Herbert further stated that Leclerc’s growth as a driver in recent years, particularly his performance in 2024, indicates he will be a tough competitor for Hamilton. The challenge of racing against a driver of Hamilton’s caliber is expected to elevate Leclerc’s performance, which in turn will benefit Ferrari as they push to be at the front of the grid.
Hamilton, who shared his excitement about joining Ferrari on social media, described his first day with the team as an unforgettable moment in his career. Standing outside the iconic Enzo Ferrari house in Maranello, Hamilton expressed his happiness about realizing his long-held dream of driving for Ferrari. He reflected on the many achievements he has experienced in his career, yet expressed that joining the Scuderia felt like the realization of a long-cherished goal. He is eager to begin a new chapter with Ferrari and is optimistic about the future, hoping to write a new story with the team in the years to come.
