Leclerc ready for ‘greatness’ says former Ferrari race engineer

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc has long been considered one of the most gifted drivers in Formula 1, and according to his former race engineer Xavi Marcos, the Monegasque is poised for greatness.

Marcos, who worked closely with Leclerc from his Ferrari debut in 2019 until last year’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, has given a glowing assessment of his former charger, insisting that the 26-year-old has all the tools required to reach the pinnacle of the sport.

Even with the arrival at the Scuderia of seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton, Marcos believes Leclerc is the driver to bring the world crown back to Maranello.

A Talent Destined for the Top

Ferrari lost out to McLaren in last year’s Constructors’ Championship battle, but with three race wins and a career-best of 356 points, Leclerc showcased once again his ability to fight at the sharp end of the grid.

And Marcos's assessment of Leclerc's talent – including his ability to extract the most from any car – is glowing.

“Charles is an exceptional driver, he has a truly incredible natural talent,” Marcos told formula1.it.

“His strength is being able to adapt immediately to the car in his hands and being able to tell everything that happens while driving.

“He pushes set-up changes a lot, even beyond normal limits or what the engineers suggest. As a technician he’s fun, you can think outside the box.

“He’s grown so much in racing, he’s strong in tyre management, for me he’s OK in everything. He’s ready to be really great.”

The Character Behind the Champion

Leclerc’s driving prowess is undeniable, but Marcos also shed light on his remarkable personality, which he believes has remained unchanged despite the pressures and fame that come with being a Ferrari driver.

“I had a lot of fun with him, we started together in Ferrari and I respect him very much,” Marcos said. I love him very much. As a person he is really simple, polite and has always treated me well.

“He also always remained normal, humble. You know, when you’re young, famous and you’re in Ferrari it’s easy to change. Not him, he’s to be admired for that.”

Even after parting ways with Ferrari to take on the role of Technical Director at Cadillac’s sportscar program, Marcos continues to maintain a strong relationship with Leclerc.

Their bond, built over years of working side by side in high-pressure situations, remains as strong as ever.

“We are in a good relationship to this day, we hear from each other a lot,” he revealed. “I love him and he knows I am and will always be available, for everything he needs.”

With his natural talent, relentless work ethic, and unwavering humility, Leclerc has all the ingredients to etch his name among the legends of the sport.

Read also:

• Papa & Jules: Leclerc's new helmet honors loved ones

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