Leclerc Knew of Ferrari Talks With Hamilton
Photo: Eric Alonso/Getty Images
Not everyone was shocked with the news that seven-time Formula One World Driving Champion Lewis Hamilton will leave the Mercedes F1 team at the end of the season to join Ferrari beginning in 2025.
Current Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc says he was informed by the team about the possibility of Hamilton replacing Carlos Sainz Jr. at the Scuderia before he signed a contract extension at the end of January.
“Honestly, I wasn't surprised in a way that obviously these deals are not discussed overnight and before I had signed my contract I was aware that there were talks and the possibility of having Lewis as a teammate.
“But I don't want to go too much into details about that. It's obviously going to be a great opportunity for the team,” said Leclerc. “He's such a incredible driver, a great person as well. We have a good relationship.
“On the other hand, out of respect for Carlos, I don't want to go too much into details for that. We've had great years together and there's still one more that we have to do together. And I have no doubt that Carlos and myself will give absolutely everything to bring Ferrari back to the top.
“It's been great to be working with Carlos and again, we have a full year together still. So we'll take the most out of it. And hopefully, many more victories compared to ’23. And then after that, we'll focus on ’25.”
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