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Patrese declares Leclerc the only driver who can challenge Verstappen: will Ferrari keep him?

Carl Harrison by Carl Harrison
December 17, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 2 mins read
0
Patrese declares Leclerc the only driver who can challenge Verstappen: will Ferrari keep him?

Title: Leclerc’s Future in Jeopardy? Legendary Driver Patrese Sparks Debate Over Ferrari Star’s Career Choices!

In a stunning revelation, former Formula 1 ace Riccardo Patrese has ignited a firestorm of speculation regarding Charles Leclerc’s future with Ferrari. As Leclerc celebrated his 28th birthday last October, the question looms large: Is the Monegasque driver tying himself too closely to the Scuderia, or should he explore new horizons to fulfill his championship dreams?

Leclerc, a talent recognized globally, has only managed to clinch a mere eight victories over eight complete seasons in the fiercely competitive world of Formula 1. With the 2026 season on the horizon, many insiders believe it could be a pivotal year for him. Rumors are swirling that other teams, notably Aston Martin, are keen to lure him away from the iconic Maranello team. The stakes couldn’t be higher; Ferrari must hit the ground running next year, or risk losing their star driver to rival outfits.

Patrese, in a candid interview with Quotidiano Nazionale, did not hold back his admiration for Leclerc’s abilities. “He always puts up a fight,” Patrese declared, attributing Leclerc’s challenges to the shortcomings of the Scuderia. “He has an insatiable hunger for victories, and I understand his frustration. The rare mistakes he makes stem from the immense desire he carries.”

In a bold assessment, Patrese claimed that even with the emergence of new talents like Lando Norris, Leclerc remains the only driver capable of giving Max Verstappen—a phenomenon in his own right—a run for his money, provided they are in equal machinery. “Carletto is the only one who can match Verstappen,” he insisted, underlining Leclerc’s unique potential.

Patrese didn’t stop there; he also weighed in on the legendary Lewis Hamilton. “What kind of car has he had at his disposal?” he questioned, highlighting Hamilton’s record-breaking achievements in Formula 1. “You have to give a driver like Lewis a competitive car; otherwise, it all falls apart. Imagine putting Lewis in a Ferrari that is even remotely close to the strongest team, and you’ll see him back in the hunt.”

As the Formula 1 world watches closely, the pressure mounts for Ferrari to deliver a competitive package that can satisfy Leclerc’s ambitions. The clock is ticking, and the question remains: Will Ferrari be able to keep their star driver, or will they watch him slip away into the hands of a rival team? Only time will tell!

Tags: 1958-formula-1-seasonaf-corse-ferrariAston MartinCharles LeclercLewis Hamiltonriccardo-patrese
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