Raikkonen out. Leclerc in. Who has the German’s back now?
Ferrari announced that rookie Sauber driver Charles Leclerc will be replacing Kimi Raikkonen for the 2019 season. After just 14 races in Formula One, the 20-year old will be driving for one of the most prestigious teams.
Leclerc has shown great potential this season, earning 13 of his team’s 19 points. It is clear that he is one of the most talented young drivers on the grid. With the opportunity to drive one of the best performing cars, Leclerc is likely to dominate the sport.
The upgrade for Leclerc sends Raikkonen to Sauber, who are currently ninth in the Constructors’ Championship. After taking pole in Monza, the Finn was unable to prevent Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton from winning at Ferrari’s home Grand Prix. With Hamilton’s lead from Sebastian Vettel increasing, the pressure is on for the Italian team to strike back. Perhaps by signing Leclerc they may not be in the same situation this time next year.
The Monegasque driver will be a threat to all opponents, including his future teammate. Ferrari have made it clear that Vettel is their No 1. Raikkonen has been Vettel’s sidekick for the past two years, with the team enforcing orders for the German to pass if Raikkonen is ahead. While these tactics can be justified now, Vettel’s days as their main man may be numbered.
Vettel’s expertise cannot be denied. The four-time world champion has been duelling with Hamilton for the title. But with the prospect of new talent coming through, Ferrari may wish to place their hopes on Leclerc.
Young stars are emerging in Formula One. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen has demonstrated that he is a force to be reckoned with, having already taken four career victories. His 2019 teammate Pierre Gasly is also on the rise. Red Bull are not the only team to put their trust in two young drivers. McLaren’s line up next year will be current Renault driver Carlos Sainz and Formula Two’s Lando Norris. Both men have shown great skill and are likely to pick up plenty of points for McLaren.
Ferrari will have two competitors who will be vying for victory. With five drivers on the 2019 grid under the age of 24, the future of Formula One is emerging. In a Ferrari Leclerc is likely to go on to have multiple successes and, at the age of 20, the possibilities are endless.
Whatever the future holds, Leclerc’s arrival at Ferrari will shake things up.
Wheels on Fire 77 