As the curtain fell on the 2024 Formula 1 season in Abu Dhabi, Charles Leclerc bid farewell to his Ferrari teammate of four years, Carlos Sainz, who is set to join Williams in 2025. The Monegasque driver, who now welcomes Lewis Hamilton as his new partner at Ferrari, was full of praise for Sainz, reflecting on their intense battles and the impact the Spaniard had on his career.
“Carlos Made Me a Better Driver”
Leclerc didn’t hold back when describing Sainz’s influence on him as a teammate.
“Carlos is so incredibly talented,” Leclerc said. “He’s helped me to improve in so many areas—his work ethic, his talent, just everything he brings. The discipline he has, he’s been just such an incredible teammate.”
Leclerc credited Sainz for playing a significant role in Ferrari’s improvements over their partnership, noting the Spaniard’s meticulous approach and sensitivity to the car’s performance nuances.
Sainz’s Move to Williams: A New Chapter
Sainz’s move to Williams comes as part of the team’s ambitious rebuild, and drivers like Lando Norris have already predicted that Sainz will be a transformative figure for the Grove-based outfit. Leclerc echoed this sentiment, lamenting the bad luck that prevented Sainz from securing a more competitive seat.
“He’s just been extremely quick,” Leclerc said. “In Formula 1, some things you don’t really have explanations for. There’s also luck that is involved to be at the right place at the right time, and Carlos definitely deserves to be in a top team.”
Leclerc expressed confidence that Sainz’s technical acumen and dedication would elevate Williams, paving the way for a potential return to the front of the grid.
“He will give so much to Williams, the way he’s so sensitive to every small change and every small feeling there is in the car,” Leclerc added.
On-Track Battles and Fond Memories
The partnership between Leclerc and Sainz wasn’t without its on-track drama, with the two engaging in fierce wheel-to-wheel battles during their time together. However, Leclerc sees those moments as highlights of their partnership rather than points of contention.
“I’ll definitely miss the fights,” Leclerc admitted. “We’ve had our moments on track, but that’s only because we were fighting so close together and because he’s been pushing me all the way.”
Despite the competitive tensions, Leclerc emphasized how much he has grown as a driver thanks to Sainz’s relentless push.
“I wouldn’t be the driver I am today without him as my teammate in the last four years,” he said. “It’s been a really big pleasure and four years that I will be looking back on in the most positive way.”
The Future Awaits
While Ferrari fans turn their attention to the tantalizing new pairing of Leclerc and Hamilton, Leclerc remains confident that Sainz will find his way back to the top tier of F1, whether through his own efforts at Williams or a move to another competitive team.
“I have no doubts that he will be back at the top of the grid,” Leclerc concluded. “He deserves that, and I think everybody knows that. It’s just a matter of time before he comes back.”
As Sainz embarks on his new journey with Williams, the admiration and respect from his former teammate serve as a testament to his talent and character. Meanwhile, Ferrari enters 2025 with one of the most star-studded lineups in recent memory, ready to reignite their championship ambitions.