‘Those with more experience’: Ferrari chairman names the one driver who’s as ‘consistent’ as Lewis Hamilton

In a surprising revelation from the heart of Maranello, Ferrari Chairman John Elkann has publicly acknowledged a driver who he believes exhibits a level of consistency on the racetrack comparable to that of Lewis Hamilton. During a recent interview with motorsport media, Elkann expressed his admiration for the driver’s performance and stability, drawing a notable parallel with Hamilton, one of Formula 1’s most celebrated and successful drivers.

Elkann’s comments come as a significant endorsement, considering the high standards associated with Hamilton’s career. Lewis Hamilton, with his seven World Championships and numerous race victories, has set a benchmark for consistency and excellence in Formula 1. To be mentioned in the same breath as Hamilton is no small feat, and Elkann’s praise shines a spotlight on a driver who has consistently demonstrated remarkable skill and reliability.

When asked about the current landscape of Formula 1 and which drivers stand out for their exceptional consistency, Elkann was quick to mention Charles Leclerc, Ferrari’s own driver. “In terms of consistency and delivering exceptional performance, Charles Leclerc stands out. He has shown time and again that he can perform at the highest level under various conditions, much like Lewis Hamilton,” Elkann stated.

Leclerc, a Monegasque driver, joined Ferrari in 2019 and has since become a cornerstone of the team’s strategy and ambitions. His ability to extract maximum performance from the car, combined with his impressive racecraft, has made him a key asset for the Scuderia. Elkann’s praise is a testament to Leclerc’s impressive track record and his pivotal role in Ferrari’s aspirations for future success.

The comparison to Hamilton is particularly noteworthy given Hamilton’s longstanding dominance in the sport. Hamilton’s career has been marked by his unparalleled consistency, with the British driver rarely faltering in his performances and consistently challenging for race wins and podiums. For Leclerc to be associated with such a level of excellence highlights the high regard in which he is held within the Ferrari camp.

Leclerc’s consistency has been evident in various aspects of his career. From his debut season with Sauber to his current role at Ferrari, Leclerc has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt and thrive under pressure. His performances have not only secured him numerous podium finishes but have also earned him the respect of both peers and critics alike. His skill in managing race strategies and extracting performance from the car, even in less-than-ideal conditions, echoes the attributes that have defined Hamilton’s career.

Elkann’s comments also reflect Ferrari’s broader strategic vision. As the team looks to regain its position at the forefront of Formula 1, having a driver of Leclerc’s caliber is crucial. The consistency and reliability that Leclerc brings to the team are seen as key factors in Ferrari’s pursuit of championship success. Elkann’s endorsement underscores the faith that Ferrari has in Leclerc’s abilities and the belief that he is instrumental in achieving the team’s long-term goals.

In addition to Leclerc, Elkann acknowledged the broader talent pool in Formula 1, noting that the current generation of drivers is exceptionally skilled. However, he emphasized that maintaining consistency at the top level of the sport is what truly sets drivers apart. “It’s not just about raw speed,” Elkann elaborated. “It’s about maintaining that level of performance over an entire season, race after race, and Leclerc has demonstrated that he can do just that.”

As the Formula 1 season progresses, all eyes will be on Leclerc to see if he can continue to meet the high expectations set for him. The comparison to Hamilton serves as both a compliment and a challenge, highlighting the pressure and expectations that come with such a prestigious endorsement.

In conclusion, John Elkann’s recent comments provide a significant boost to Charles Leclerc’s profile within the sport. By drawing a parallel between Leclerc’s consistency and that of Lewis Hamilton, Elkann has not only praised Leclerc’s achievements but also underscored the high regard in which Ferrari holds their star driver. As Ferrari looks to build on its successes and return to the top of Formula 1, Leclerc’s performance will undoubtedly be a critical factor in their quest for glory.