Charles Leclerc had known for months that there was a chance Lewis Hamilton would join Ferrari, but he was still surprised when it actually happened.
Last year, Lewis Hamilton signed a two-season contract extension with Mercedes. However, six months later, the seven-time F1 champion shocked everyone by announcing his early departure from Mercedes at the end of the year to race for Ferrari.
In an interview with ‘Fox Sports Australia’, Charles Leclerc revealed that he was aware of the possibility of Hamilton coming to Ferrari for several months.
“I knew for several months that it was a possibility,” Leclerc said. “Obviously, it was still a surprise that there was a chance of it happening. I had a great relationship and great years with Carlos. However, these were difficult years for the team because the performances were not as good as hoped. We have had a great time working together and are looking forward to the final year.”
Looking ahead to 2025, Leclerc sees the arrival of Lewis Hamilton as a teammate as a new challenge.
“Lewis will be joining us next year and that is a great challenge for me. He is the most successful driver in Formula 1 history and it is cool to have him as a teammate. I can of course learn a lot from him and it is an opportunity for me to show what I can do. I see that as a great challenge.”