Charles Leclerc has opened up about the occasional on-track friction with his Ferrari teammate Carlos Sainz, but admits that tensions that transpire over the radio are less intense than perceived.
As a result of Lewis Hamilton’s move from Mercedes to the Scuderia at the end of the season, Sainz will depart the Italian outfit and open a new chapter in his F1 career with Williams Racing.
The Spaniard has been a well-regarded figure within the Ferrari team over his four-year stint with the House of Maranello and has achieved all of his three F1 wins with the Scuderia.
Sainz and Leclerc have enjoyed a harmonious working relationsCharles Leclerc has opened up about the occasional on-track friction with his Ferrari teammate Carlos Sainz, but admits that tensions that transpire over the radio are less intense than perceived, while flashpoints are kept at a minimum.
However, occasional on track spats are inevitable.
In Barcelona in June, a disagreement opposed the two drivers when Leclerc claimed that his teammate had disobeyed a pre-race order, which prompted Sainz to say that "too many times he complains after the race about something".
But Leclerc downplayed the episode, and any other, acknowledging the occasional bickering as part of the competitive environment.
“It’s normal that sometimes there is friction,” Leclerc told Belgian broadcaster RTBF.
“Carlos and I don’t always agree on what happens on the track and managing adrenaline is not easy, but the important thing is to be able to discuss it when the race is over.
“Over the radio it seems like there is always tension, but it’s not like that.”
While teammate dynamics have been a topic of discussion, Ferrari's overall performance in recent months has also drawn attention.
The team's strong start to its 2023 campaign, featuring victories for both Sainz and Leclerc – in Australia and in Monaco respectively - has faltered.
Major upgrades aimed at closing the gap to Red Bull and McLaren have backfired, bringing back the bouncing issue that plagued early-season races.
Leclerc acknowledges the difficulties but remains optimistic. "We know we are in a difficult situation, but we will do everything to get back to the front," he declared.
“We are working well with the team and the relationship with Fred Vasseur is really good, you don’t need too many words to understand each other.
“The target is clear for everyone and we want to show what we can do.”
With Vasseur setting "clear targets” in the short term, the pressure is on Ferrari to deliver a strong second half of the season. Leclerc's comments suggest that communication and a united front will be crucial for their success.
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