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Rosberg Warns Hamilton About Leclerc Challenge Following Ferrari Move
Nico Rosberg has cautioned Lewis Hamilton about the challenges awaiting him at Ferrari, particularly in the face of Charles Leclerc’s qualifying prowess. Hamilton, a seven-time World Champion, made the highly anticipated switch to Ferrari in early 2024 and will partner Leclerc for at least two seasons.
Reflecting on Hamilton’s 2024 season at Mercedes, Rosberg highlighted the struggles Hamilton faced against George Russell. Hamilton was out-qualified by his teammate 19-5, although both drivers secured two race wins each, with Russell ending the year 22 points ahead. Rosberg believes Hamilton will face a similar challenge against Leclerc, who is renowned for his speed over one lap.
Leclerc, with 26 pole positions and eight race wins, has established himself as one of the sport’s fastest drivers in qualifying. Rosberg likened Leclerc’s level to that of Russell, whom he described as “the best of the next generation,” second only to Max Verstappen.
Speaking on Sky F1, Rosberg expressed confidence in Leclerc’s ability to challenge Hamilton early in the season. “If you take [Abu Dhabi], then definitely Charles,” Rosberg stated when asked who would come out on top in the Ferrari team battle. “Charles will be on a similar level to George Russell, which is kind of the best of the next generation level, except for Verstappen, [who] was a little higher again. And Lewis is just struggling at the moment, and we don’t really know why.”
Despite this, Rosberg backed Hamilton to regain his form and finish the season slightly ahead of Leclerc. “Lewis is the greatest of all time,” Rosberg remarked. “We still give him the benefit of the doubt that he can be back to his usual best, and then he should be slightly ahead of Charles at the end of the year.”
The Hamilton-Leclerc partnership has already generated significant buzz as one of the most compelling storylines heading into the 2025 season. Ferrari’s internal dynamic, combined with the team’s quest for championship contention, promises to deliver a fascinating battle both on and off the track.
For Hamilton, who has achieved everything in the sport, the move to Ferrari marks a fresh chapter in his illustrious career. However, Rosberg’s analysis serves as a reminder of the challenges awaiting him as he faces a formidable new teammate in Leclerc.
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