Leclerc won't change Vettel's 'basic team mate rule'

Sebastian Vettel says the arrival of the mercurial Charles Leclerc at Ferrari next season won't change a basic rule that he applies to all his team mates.

For several years, the German enjoyed a harmonious relationship at the Scuderia with Kimi Raikkonen, but many are predicting that the highly rated Leclerc will give Vettel more than a run for his money.

"The harmony between Kimi and I meant that we didn't waste time with various things," Vettel told Swiss daily Blick.

"Everyone is different, and we will see how Charles and I will work together. But he is a good guy and Ferrari is a huge chance for him.

"The basic rule is unchanged -- you always want to beat the other."

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Vettel is aware of what he will be up against, but the four-time world champion has a positive view of the 21-year-old Leclerc, and he hopes the Monegasque will work with him to bring the title back to Maranello for the first time since 2008.

"It is clear that Charles is at a different stage of his career to me, but we all want Ferrari back on top," said Vettel.

"We'll see how things will work out next year, but as far as I know he's a good guy.

"The years after my last title have not been simple, but it's good to be back in a position where we can fight for the victories and the championship."

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