Leclerc: Hamilton Not a Focus Until Ferrari Competes for Wins

Charles Leclerc indicates that a contest against Ferrari colleague Lewis Hamilton is not a pressing matter, especially since they are “not fighting for very interesting positions” in Formula 1 2025.

While Ferrari has demonstrated an aptitude for achieving occasional podium results thus far this year, these instances have been infrequent; Leclerc boasts four podiums throughout the initial 12 events, whereas Hamilton has yet to secure a top-three spot in grand prix circumstances this season.

Prior to this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix, both Ferrari racers expressed their eagerness to provide input to the squad regarding areas they deem crucial for enhancement to contend for championships, with Hamilton remarking that Ferrari is “not performing at its peak”.

Consequently, propelling the Maranello-based team forward is the primary objective. Leclerc asserts that this holds significant importance in his perspective for the remainder of 2025, superseding the goal of defeating Hamilton.

The Monegasque elaborated that engaging in combat with his team-mate for lower-tier points positions holds minimal appeal for him, and that Hamilton is not presently his “target”.

“It’s something that remains in the periphery for now,” Leclerc stated. “You’re always conscious of it to some extent, but frankly, when you’re contending for fourth, fifth, or sixth, it doesn’t particularly captivate my interest.”

Charles Leclerc, Ferrari

Photo by: Andy Hone/ LAT Images via Getty Images

“Naturally, when we commence competing for triumphs, then these facets receive closer scrutiny.

“However, it hasn’t truly been a part of my focus… I came here with the intent to glean as much as possible from Lewis, to extract beneficial insights that could enhance my capabilities as a driver. Subsequently, I concentrate on my individual performance, aiming to execute the optimal job possible, which entails surpassing Lewis, but not exclusively.

“I believe the squad’s paramount objective, and my principal objective currently, is to reinstate Ferrari to its former glory. And, yes, Lewis isn’t my immediate concern, as we’re not contending for particularly significant positions.”

Ferrari has journeyed to Belgium equipped with an updated rear suspension system, which underwent preliminary testing during a filming session at Mugello the preceding week. This ensured that any operational assessment remained superficial due to the imposed constraints on distance during filming day tests.

Leclerc conveyed that he discerned no discernible alteration in behavior based on his initial assessment, while refraining from disclosing further specifics regarding the novel geometry.

“We did not [perceive a difference in behavior], and I shall refrain from elaborating on the particular characteristics of this suspension,” Leclerc remarked.

Charles Leclerc, Ferrari, Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari

Photo by: Sam Bagnall / Motorsport Images via Getty Images

“Evidently, such considerations are reserved for our internal deliberations, and it would be imprudent to broadly disseminate the specifics of its functionality. However, we shall ascertain its impact on the track tomorrow.

“I don’t anticipate [it altering our car setup]. I can attain the requisite assurance by configuring the car differently. Hence, should the need arise, I shall opt for that approach.

“For the moment, I favor prioritizing performance over assurance. This strategy isn’t invariably fruitful, as exemplified by the preceding race weekend at Silverstone, where I encountered notable difficulties, particularly in wet conditions.

“I acknowledge the inherent risk associated with adopting such an extreme setup. I don’t foresee this being mitigated by the suspension, as we still need to configure the car in a relatively analogous manner to maximize its potential. Nevertheless, I am content to pursue this trajectory.”