Charles Leclerc delivered a stunning performance at the Italian Grand Prix, reminding Ferrari—and the world—why he deserves his place at the front of the Scuderia’s F1 campaign. With Lewis Hamilton set to join Ferrari in 2025, many feared that Leclerc could be sidelined in favor of the sport’s most decorated driver. However, Leclerc’s remarkable drive at Monza has given Ferrari every reason to keep faith in their 26-year-old star.
Since joining Ferrari in 2019, Leclerc’s tenure has been marked by flashes of brilliance and near-misses. His failed title bid in 2022 and moments of being outshined by teammate Carlos Sainz had raised questions about his long-term role with the team. The looming arrival of Hamilton—a seven-time world champion with an unmatched resume—only added to the speculation that Leclerc might be relegated to a secondary role.
Yet, at Monza, in front of the fervent Tifosi, Leclerc silenced his critics with a race that will go down in Ferrari folklore. Despite starting the race with little expectation of victory and expressing frustration over a strategic misstep that cost him track position, Leclerc kept his composure and executed a bold one-stop strategy to perfection. His ability to fend off the McLarens and maintain his lead against formidable competition, even on older tires, showcased a level of skill and mental fortitude that Ferrari cannot afford to overlook.
This victory not only rejuvenated Ferrari’s season but also reinforced Leclerc’s status as a driver who thrives under pressure. In a race where everything was on the line, Leclerc proved that he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level, and more importantly, to win.
For Ferrari, this performance changes everything. The narrative that Hamilton’s arrival would overshadow Leclerc has been upended. Instead, Ferrari now finds itself in the enviable position of having two potential championship contenders in its ranks for 2025. Leclerc’s Monza triumph has made it clear that he is in his prime, and Ferrari must now carefully balance its strategy to ensure that both drivers are given equal opportunities to succeed.
Leclerc’s victory at Monza wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. It was a reminder to Ferrari and the F1 world that he remains a force to be reckoned with, and that sidelining him in favor of Hamilton would be a mistake of epic proportions. As Ferrari prepares for the 2025 season, they now know they have a driver who, despite the odds, can deliver when it matters most.
