Charles Leclerc recently expressed his astonishment at Lewis Hamilton’s remarkable braking skills, a trait Leclerc long believed was unique to himself among Ferrari drivers. The 2025 Formula 1 season has seen Leclerc outperform Hamilton overall, but the Ferrari driver was candid about how Hamilton’s late braking ability stands out, even compared to former teammates like Sebastian Vettel and Carlos Sainz.
Leclerc, who has secured all three Ferrari podium finishes this year, shared his reflections on Hamilton’s driving style:
I think how late he brakes is very impressive. In my career, I’ve always been the one braking later than my teammates, and that is a particular driving style I didn’t really see in any of my teammates. I think Lewis is a step ahead, even more so in that direction.
—Charles Leclerc, Ferrari Driver
Admiration for Hamilton’s Focus and Discipline on and off the Track
Beyond his braking prowess, Hamilton’s discipline has left a strong impression on Leclerc. The seven-time World Champion is renowned not only for his racecraft but also for his ability to manage the multiple demands of competing at the highest level. Leclerc emphasized Hamilton’s intense focus and organizational skill:
His discipline is very, very impressive. From the outside, I obviously remember I was seeing him managing so many different things, and I was like, ‘This has to be hard.’ But then when you look at how organized everything is, you can understand that he’s just 200 percent focused on racing.
—Charles Leclerc, Ferrari Driver
Hamilton’s Season and Adaptation to Ferrari
Although Hamilton’s results on the track have not matched typical expectations—he currently sits sixth in the Drivers’ Championship—the former champion remains optimistic. His transition to Ferrari has been positive off the track, as he enjoys life in Italy and the new opportunities outside racing. Hamilton is dedicated to refining his performance and aims to elevate both his and Ferrari’s standing in the championship.
The rivalry between Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc is intensifying, promising an exciting and competitive season ahead. Both drivers’ contrasting strengths signal that their battles will continue to captivate Formula 1 enthusiasts throughout 2025 and beyond.
