Leclerc won’t indulge in ‘political games’ at Ferrari

40

Don’t count on Charles Leclerc to plot or scheme at Ferrari, the Monegasque making clear he has no intention of resorting to political games when it comes to managing his relationship with Sebastian Vettel.

Leclerc was very much a match for his team mate in the opening round of the 2019 season in Melbourne, but the Monegasque clearly outpaced Vettel in Bahrain where only an engine issue robbed him of his maiden F1 win.

Since however, Vettel has fought back and regained the upper hand against the 21-year-old but Leclerc is determined to counter on the track, not behind the scenes.

Binotto fears 2019 title might already be out of reach

"I just do my job on the circuit and I am satisfied with that myself. I certainly feel at ease with Ferrari," Leclerc told L'Equipe.

"I don't like political games at all. In fact, I hate that political act.

“That is not my style. I am friends with no one purely for the sole purpose of using it. I prefer good and natural friendships."

Leclerc feels that his position within the Scuderia has gradually strengthened although Vettel retains at Maranello his privileged status of number one.

"It is true that the situation after Bahrain has changed, Leclerc said.

"The team has more respect for me since I showed that I can win races.

"I understand there must be a certain hierarchy in a team like Ferrari. It is also clear to me that Seb is the favourite within the team because of his incredible experience.

"I must continue to do my job well by making fewer mistakes on the job. Seb simply makes fewer mistakes than I do."

Gallery: The beautiful wives and girlfriends of F1 drivers

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.