The inner workings behind Charles Leclerc Ferrari ascendancy have come to light as Sebastian Vettel discusses how the balance of power changed within the team during his final years at Maranello. Fans and followers learned about this significant shift at Ferrari, where Leclerc’s determined approach rapidly elevated him above the experienced Vettel, forever altering the team’s trajectory.
Shifting Fortunes Within the Scuderia
After joining Ferrari in 2019, Charles Leclerc was thrust into a challenging environment, opposing Sebastian Vettel, a driver already celebrated for his championship battles, particularly against Lewis Hamilton. Ferrari entered the year with high hopes, but quickly faced the harsh reality of Mercedes’ relentless dominance, preventing any real challenge for championship titles. In that first season together, Leclerc decisively outscored Vettel with 260 points to Vettel’s 244, securing two race wins while Vettel managed only one. This outcome proved crucial, eventually leading to the decision not to extend Vettel’s contract past 2020, signifying a profound change in the team’s leadership and internal order.
The Downward Spiral and Leclerc’s Ascent
The following year, 2020, deepened Ferrari’s struggles as the SF1000 failed to deliver results. Vettel endured a tough campaign, amassing only 33 points, while Leclerc soared ahead with 98. Reflecting on this dramatic switch, Vettel has been introspective regarding his own performance.
Image of: Charles Leclerc
“I came to Formula 1 in 2006, and by 2010, I was at my peak,”
— Sebastian Vettel, Former Ferrari Driver.
He expanded further:
“But by 2019 and 2020, I was already on my way down. I didn’t have that last ultimate push anymore.”
— Sebastian Vettel, Former Ferrari Driver.
The difference in form and motivation between the two drivers soon became visible both in results and in attitude. Leclerc, early in his Ferrari career, displayed relentless energy and eagerness, while Vettel, a multiple-time champion, struggled to find similar drive after years at the top.
Mindset and Motivation: Contrasting Generations
Vettel himself recognized the mental contrasts shaping their performances. He noted that Leclerc’s optimism and enthusiasm brought vital new energy to the team, contrasting sharply with his own expectations shaped by years of victory.
“I was spoiled—I had won four championships and countless races. All I wanted was to win again, while Charles was elated with a fifth place finish because it marked a new chapter in his career.”
— Sebastian Vettel, Former Ferrari Driver.
As mistakes became increasingly frequent, Vettel acknowledged that the mental stress and desire for a return to winning ways weighed heavily on his late Ferrari years, while Leclerc experienced every success as an invigorating milestone.
The Impact of a Turbulent Season and Personal Reflection
The chaotic 2020 season forced by the COVID-19 pandemic added a unique layer to Vettel’s Ferrari finale, allowing him an unanticipated pause that offered a mix of relief and perspective.
“I enjoyed it so much, but I also became aware of the world’s problems through my kids, and that reflection affected me,”
— Sebastian Vettel, Former Ferrari Driver.
Vettel further admitted:
“At that time, I was probably not at my peak anymore.”
— Sebastian Vettel, Former Ferrari Driver.
This period of self-reflection illuminated the depth of change taking place both in his life and at the team, as Leclerc assumed the leading role at Ferrari through grit and adaptability.
Looking Ahead for Ferrari and Leclerc
The revelations from Vettel highlight more than a personal transition—they illustrate a broader tale of team transformation and the relentless pace of change in Formula 1. As Ferrari, known as the Prancing Horse, now eyes a future shaped by Leclerc’s leadership, the shadow of past struggles and the lessons from Vettel’s era loom large. Key decisions and new technical regulations arriving in 2026 will test whether Leclerc and Ferrari can rise together or if the same difficulties will reemerge. The ongoing story of Ferrari’s quest for a return to championship contention remains a captivating subject for fans and insiders alike.
