For years, Charles Leclerc has been heralded as Ferrari’s golden boy, but according to his ex-race engineer Xavi Marcos, the Monegasque isn’t just a contender—he’s a champion in waiting.
As Leclerc enters his seventh season with Ferrari, the stakes have never been higher. The Scuderia has endured a heartbreaking 17-year title drought, and with seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton now in the garage, the pressure to deliver is at an all-time high.
But Marcos, who worked alongside Leclerc from his Ferrari debut in 2019 until mid-2023, has no doubts—Leclerc has everything it takes to become one of Formula 1’s all-time greats.
“He’s Ready to Be Really Great”—Marcos on Leclerc’s F1 Potential
Despite Ferrari falling short again in 2024, Leclerc delivered his best season yet—13 podiums, three wins, and a career-high 356 points, proving that he’s on the cusp of title glory.
Marcos, now the Technical Director at Cadillac’s sportscar operation, believes that Leclerc’s natural talent and adaptability set him apart.
“Charles is an exceptional driver, he has a truly incredible natural talent,” Marcos told formula1.it.
“His strength is being able to adapt immediately to the car in his hands and being able to tell everything that happens while driving.”
Leclerc’s ability to push set-up changes beyond the normal limits is something Marcos particularly admires.
“He pushes set-up changes a lot, even beyond normal limits or what the engineers suggest. As a technician, he’s fun, you can think outside the box.”
While some critics have questioned Leclerc’s race management, Marcos completely shuts down the doubts, emphasizing that the Ferrari star has grown into a complete driver.
“He’s grown so much in racing, he’s strong in tyre management. For me, he’s OK in everything. He’s ready to be really great.”
Can Leclerc Finally Bring Ferrari Back to the Top?
Leclerc isn’t just battling his own championship aspirations—he’s carrying the weight of an entire team, an entire nation, and an entire fanbase desperate for Ferrari’s return to the top.
Ferrari came agonizingly close in 2024, finishing just 14 points behind McLaren in the Constructors’ Championship. But Leclerc believes that last season’s progress has laid the foundation for an even stronger 2025.
And with Hamilton now in the team, Ferrari finally has a two-pronged attack to challenge Red Bull and McLaren.
But for Leclerc, the ultimate challenge remains—can he prove himself as Ferrari’s undisputed leader, even with Hamilton in the garage?
“He’s Stayed Humble Through It All”—Leclerc’s Character Sets Him Apart
Marcos didn’t just praise Leclerc’s driving ability—he also highlighted his character, something that separates him from many of his peers.
“As a person, he is really simple, polite, and has always treated me well,” Marcos said.
“He has always remained normal, humble. You know, when you’re young, famous, and you’re in Ferrari, it’s easy to change. Not him, he’s to be admired for that.”
Marcos revealed that he and Leclerc still remain in close contact, proving the deep bond they formed over the years.
“We are in a good relationship to this day, we hear from each other a lot. I love him and he knows I am and will always be available for everything he needs.”
The Verdict: 2025 Could Be Leclerc’s Defining Year
With Ferrari’s steady progress, Hamilton’s arrival, and Leclerc’s continued growth, the time for him to step up as a champion is now.
His ex-race engineer sees it. Ferrari’s leadership sees it. The Tifosi see it.
Now, it’s up to Leclerc to prove it on track.
Will 2025 be the year Ferrari finally reclaims its throne? Or will Leclerc remain just a “future champion” for another season?
The stage is set. It’s time for Charles Leclerc to take his shot at immortality.
