Charles Leclerc has made it clear that he is not interested in taking on a mentorship role for Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari. The Monegasque driver has had a standout season in 2025, consistently outperforming the seven-time world champion. Leclerc’s performance included a remarkable 19-5 advantage in head-to-head races, alongside seven podium finishes and a pole position. Meanwhile, Hamilton has struggled, failing to secure a podium for the first time in a calendar year.
Ferrari’s season unfolded with minimal drama, despite the expectations surrounding Hamilton’s transition from Mercedes. The British driver expressed frustration with his performance, even suggesting he should be replaced after a disappointing race in Budapest. Leclerc often found himself explaining Hamilton’s difficulties, a role reminiscent of George Russell’s experience during his last years at Mercedes.
The dynamics within the team have shifted since Hamilton’s arrival, placing additional pressure on Leclerc. Despite this, Leclerc has maintained his focus on his performance, stating, “I don’t think it is my role as a teammate” when asked about helping Hamilton. He emphasized his commitment to his responsibilities, noting, “I have my own job to focus on, and obviously you’re always trying to beat your teammate.”
Leclerc’s response reflects a notable transformation from previous seasons. With four wins in 2025 alone, he has solidified his status among Formula 1’s elite drivers. The pressure of competing against Hamilton has not deterred him; instead, it has reinforced his determination to secure a world title for Ferrari.
Leclerc Remains Focused Amid Team Changes
Reports indicate that Leclerc is adopting a more distant approach, described as showing “absolute professional coldness” towards Hamilton. He has pushed back against suggestions that he should assist Hamilton in acclimating to Ferrari. As Leclerc seeks to bring home a championship title, his patience appears to be waning, especially after several seasons without significant progress.
The prospect of Leclerc leaving Ferrari has also surfaced, with discussions about his future beyond the 2025 season gaining traction. Although he is under contract until 2029, the lack of tangible advancements has prompted speculation about a potential exit. According to Grada3, Leclerc intends to give Ferrari “one more chance” in 2026. If the team fails to demonstrate clear improvement under the new regulations, he may explore opportunities elsewhere.
Future Uncertain for Ferrari Star
Interest in Leclerc is reportedly growing among other teams, with Aston Martin positioning itself as a potential destination. Mercedes is also monitoring the situation closely, indicating that if Leclerc signals a desire to move on from Maranello, both teams could make a compelling offer.
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur is keen to secure Leclerc’s long-term commitment. However, the pressure is mounting for the team to deliver competitive results soon. Without significant advancements, retaining their star driver may prove challenging.
As the season continues, all eyes will be on Ferrari and how they navigate the complexities of team dynamics, performance expectations, and the future of their drivers. Leclerc’s focus on his own success remains paramount as he strives for excellence amidst the shifting landscape of Formula 1.
