Ralf Schumacher warns Lewis Hamilton: being Charles Leclerc's teammate is a risk
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In recent years, Charles Leclerc has reached remarkable sporting maturity, and Hamilton might face some difficulties dealing with his new teammate. Let's delve into Ralf Schumacher's opinion to understand why both Charles and Lewis are at risk in the upcoming season.
Before getting to Schumacher's opinion, let's take a look at the lineup Ferrari will field this season. On one side, there's Lewis Hamilton, a seven-time world champion who has spent most of his career with Mercedes. After 12 years with the German team, driver number 44 has decided to embark on a new adventure, heading to Maranello. This news shook the F1 paddock and sparked much discussion about the British driver, who will attempt to chase his eighth title in red. During the winter break, the numerous statements and expectations surrounding Lewis Hamilton's 2025 season somewhat overshadowed his teammate.
On the other side of the garage, Charles Leclerc will once again be present. He himself admitted to having spent a winter out of the spotlight precisely because of the attention focused on the seven-time world champion. Nevertheless, the Monegasque is ready to give his all to prove he can emerge victorious from this internal rivalry. Driver number 16 will begin his seventh season with Ferrari in just a few weeks, and over the years, he has developed a certain familiarity with the team, Maranello's working methods, and the fan base.
Ralf Schumacher's considerations
Starting from this lineup, the former F1 driver shared his thoughts, warning that the coexistence could prove destructive for both sides of the garage. "I think it's fantastic that Hamilton is accepting the challenge. But the risk is very, very high for Ferrari."
"If Charles Leclerc turns out to be slower, he will no longer be seen as the exceptional talent people love to think he is." However, according to Ralf Schumacher, the more likely scenario is the opposite. He is convinced that seeing Leclerc get the better of Hamilton is the more probable outcome.
For this reason, he admits that Lewis Hamilton's decision was quite risky, given the age difference and the stage of his career. "I don't know if I would have chosen to drive alongside Leclerc. Lewis will need at least six months, if not more, to adapt to the team. That's why I don't think he will be able to fight for the world championship this year. If the car is capable of winning the title, then it should normally favor Charles Leclerc."
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