Charles Leclerc makes feelings absolutely clear about Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari arrival - “The Tifosi will welcome him in the best possible way”

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc recently spoke about how he believes the Italian fans of the team are going to support the entry of British driver Lewis Hamilton when he begins racing for Ferrari this year. Leclerc has made it clear that the fans are as excited as he is for Hamilton to be joining the team, confirming their enthusiasm in a recent interview.

Speaking with RacingNews365, the Monegasque driver talked about how he's looking forward to working with Hamilton, and getting to know him better, along with the sense he's got from the 'Tifosi', the Italian fans, after speaking with them about his new teammate.

"Every time I've been to Maranello, he has been a lot more in the voice of the Tifosi. They seem to be very excited. I think they are going to welcome him in the best possible way."

Leclerc also highlighted what the involvement of Hamilton is going to do for Ferrari, saying:

"Everyone is already super motivated, but when a seven-time champion joins your team in the biggest move in many years, it gives the team an extra boost. Everyone is proud of that story and we all want to make it as successful as possible. That is, in my opinion, the biggest gain for Ferrari."

Speaking personally as well, the third-place finisher in the 2024 drivers' standings said:

"I've always said I'm excited about this because I'll learn from one of the best and it's a chance to show what I'm worth against such an impressive driver. I always try to perform at the top of my game, but Lewis' arrival also motivates me a lot."

Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton will race alongside each other for Ferrari for the first time when the season begins with the first race in Melbourne, Australia in March.

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Charles Leclerc talks about shared interests with Lewis Hamilton

Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton talk prior to the F1 Grand Prix of Abu Dhabi - Source: Getty

The new teammates already have something in common apart from racing, according to Charles Leclerc, which is an interest in the arts. Hamilton, who has already made clear his passion for music, is partnered with Leclerc, who has taught himself how to play the piano.

Speaking with RacingNews365, Leclerc highlighted their common interests, as well as a keenness on building his relationship with the former Mercedes driver.

"The music definitely helps. But the process of getting to know each other better actually started at the beginning of last year. Since I know he's coming, we've been able to share more of what keeps us busy outside of racing. We share a lot of interests, including music, fashion and travel."

He also added:

“We already have a good relationship and I'm sure it will develop even further as we spend more time together.”

Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton will both be testing at the Bahrain track for a day-and-half each during the pre-season testing session of 2025.