F1 Round-up: Hamilton Tipped as Schumacher 2.0; Leclerc Urged to Consider 'Plan B'
Lewis Hamilton's move to Ferrari is drawing comparisons to Michael Schumacher's era, with former team members advocating for Ferrari to listen closely to Hamilton. Concurrently, Charles Leclerc is advised to consider a 'Plan B' amidst reported tensions with the Ferrari chairman. Other headlines include Zak Brown's comments on Max Verstappen's aggression and special liveries from Williams and Sauber for the Las Vegas Grand Prix.
As the F1 season barrels towards its crucial triple-header finale, the latest headlines are buzzing with significant developments for two of the sport's biggest names. Lewis Hamilton's anticipated move to Ferrari is generating comparisons to Michael Schumacher's transformative era, while Charles Leclerc is being advised to contemplate his long-term future at Maranello.
Why it matters:
Lewis Hamilton's arrival at Ferrari next season carries immense weight, with some seeing him as the catalyst to end the Scuderia's prolonged title drought. The expectations are high, not just for Hamilton to secure a record eighth World Championship, but also to instill a winning culture reminiscent of Michael Schumacher's golden age. Meanwhile, growing tension around Charles Leclerc's position highlights the immense pressure and scrutiny faced by drivers at Ferrari, suggesting a potential shift in the team's dynamics and long-term strategy.
The Details:
- Hamilton's Schumacher Comparison: Former Ferrari stalwart Francesco Cigarini, who witnessed Michael Schumacher's dominant period, believes Hamilton could usher in a similar era of success for Ferrari. Cigarini emphasizes that for this to happen, Ferrari must fully embrace and act on Hamilton's input, a move he also thinks would benefit Charles Leclerc.
- Leclerc's 'Plan B' Advised: Ralf Schumacher has urged Charles Leclerc to establish an 'exit option' from Ferrari. This advice comes after Ferrari chairman John Elkann reportedly told Leclerc and Hamilton to "talk less," suggesting underlying tensions or a demand for stricter focus from the drivers.
- Verstappen's Aggression: McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown commented on Max Verstappen's driving style, suggesting he can be "too aggressive" on track. Brown cited incidents, including one with Lewis Hamilton in Brazil, as examples.
- Special Liveries for Las Vegas GP: Both Williams and Sauber are set to feature special liveries for the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix.
- Williams' Dark Livery: Williams will adopt a predominantly black design for the Sin City race, marking its third livery change in four races.
- Sauber's 'Final Lap' Livery: Sauber will unveil a design incorporating the checkered flag, symbolizing the team's impending transformation into the Audi F1 works team from the 2026 season onward.
What's next:
The discussions around Hamilton's potential impact on Ferrari and Leclerc's future are set to intensify as the triple-header concludes the season. These narratives will undoubtedly shape the team dynamics and strategies heading into the highly anticipated 2025 season. Meanwhile, the special liveries in Las Vegas will add an extra layer of visual spectacle to what is expected to be a thrilling penultimate race of the year, providing a glimpse into the creative expressions of teams as they commemorate special events or transitions within the sport.