Lewis Hamilton claims that the talent of his rival Formula 1 Charles Leclerc is obscured by Ferrari, which asked him to settle for teammate Sebastian Vettel.
Hamilton compared Leclerc’s situation to his own, starting with McLaren in 2007, when he was alongside defending champion Fernando Alonso.
This season ended with the loss of Alonso and Hamilton by one point behind Kimi Raikkonen and an acrimonious relationship that led to Alonso’s departure.
“There are a couple of scenarios where we’ve had multiple world champions who have number one position, and therefore you become a number two and a supporting role,” Hamilton said.
“Whilst it’s a privileged position to be in, it goes against your core value, because you’re a racing driver at heart. That’s why I understand how Charles feels. Because in his heart he believes he’s the best, or got the potential to be the best, and it’s almost like having your light dimmed.” Hamilton added.
Hamilton added, forcing Leclerc into a supporting role behind Vettel could stifle his abilities alongside Ferrari on this season.
“I can understand what Charles must feel, because in his heart he is the best, or he has the potential to be the best.” Hamilton said.
“It is limited, in a way. As a fierce racer, you are naturally inclined to rebel. They tell you to do one thing, but your fighting spirit makes you do something else.” Hamilton added.
Meanwhile Leclerc, who moved to Ferrari after an impressive rookie season with Sauber last year, said he would accept team orders in certain situations.
Charles Leclerc captures his first F1 podium this season. (Source:www.detiksport.com)
Leclerc is still looking for his first win. An engine failure cost him this gain at the Bahrain GP last month. The Monegasque added that he had discussed with the team about future instructions.
“It’s frustrating while you are in the car when you are told to let past another driver. It is frustrating for anyone who has been driving a car and given this instruction. In the end, they have a lot more data in the wells than I have in the car. We will see.” Leclerc said.
