By the end of the 2024 season, more than half the grid would be out of contract. A lot of drivers have not finalized their next plan. However, top drivers’ contract news keeps the fans on the edge of their seats.
One such incident is the sudden announcement of Lewis Hamilton Joining Ferrari. The Briton is set to replace Carlos Sainz Jr. who will be out of contract with Ferrari by the end of the 2024 season. Lewis Hamilton who has secured 7 World Championship Titles will be fighting for his 8th title with Ferrari alongside Charles Leclerc.
Stefano Domenciali does not believe Charles Leclerc would be a wingman to Lewis Hamilton
Charles Leclerc Has always been a very cooperative teammate. The driver has helped his teammate Carlos Sainz jr on multiple occasions to win GPs. However, the Monegasque while being consistent has failed to accumulate enough achievements to win a Championship Title. Multiple failed strategies and an incompetent car compared to others have failed Charles multiple times.
According to reports, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has said, “Lewis will have to contend with someone like Leclerc, who will never accept wingmanship duties,”. While the Monegasque has always been a supportive driver for Carlos, the same cannot be expected for Lewis.
Stefano predicts that the Briton will have to put up a fight against Leclerc from the next season as Charles will also aim to achieve what has been long due for himself. However, to put up a fight and win a Championship he needs to be backed by his team, which could be an issue since the signing of Lewis Hamilton.
Hardluck awaits Charles Leclerc with Lewis Hamilton’s move to Ferrari
Ferrari always had the issue of deciding who to make the main driver between Sainz Jr. and Leclerc. Ferrari has focused on both the drivers to get the best results for the team. However, this might change after the seven-time world champion arrives at Ferrari.
While both are exceptional drivers, only Lewis Hamilton could convert those skills into 7 world titles. This could mean that Lewis Hamilton would end up being the no.1 driver for Ferrari. While Hamilton is thirsty for the 8th title, it is clear that he will not be doing a supportive role.
it’s not just the experience that would cause Lewis to be favored more, Both Lewis and Ferrari team Principal Fred Vasseur have a previous relationship. The Briton used to race for ART at GP3(currently known as F3) under Frederic Vasseur. Being a Higher Hierarchy favorite could also influence the team’s decisions to favor Lewis.
If Lewis ends up being Ferrari’s focus, it could end up being worse for Charles to stick with the Prancing Horse. While the Magnesuque is an exceptional driver, Lewis Hamilton could heavily overshadow him.
