Leclerc defends team principal Fred Vasseur as he discusses 'lucky' Ferrari season

14:23, 13 Jun

Updated: 14:41, 13 Jun

bySienna Ionta

Charles Leclerc discussed how luck has played a big role in his 2025 season at Ferrari this year. The Monegasque discusses where Ferrari are currently standing as well as rumours surrounding Fred Vasseur ahead of the Canadian Grand Prix.

Leclerc reflected on Ferrari’s recent momentum, having secured two podiums in the last two races. When asked by Sky Sports whether he could continue that run and what he expects from the car this weekend, Leclerc struck a cautious but hopeful tone.

"I don't know, but I think the triple header has been positive in a way that I think we've maximised the potential of our car. We just need now some upgrades in order to be consistent and not relying [on luck]."

Leclerc: "We were a bit lucky"

He was also honest about the role fortune has played, especially in Spain. "In Barcelona, we got lucky and we got that podium, thanks to luck. We weren't in the right position to take it, but still, we were a little bit lucky."

Looking ahead, Leclerc hopes Ferrari can progress enough to fight on merit alone but admits that McLaren is not attainable. "So I hope that soon we won't need any luck to be on the podium. I think we are fighting for P4 and P3 if we really do everything perfect here, I don't think McLaren is reachable."

Lewis Hamilton, Fred Vassuer and Charles Leclerc at the F1 75 Live Event

Leclerc confirms that Vasseur is important for Ferrari

Leclerc addressed recent speculation surrounding Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur and the team's performance so far this season, as some Italian media outlets have begun questioning leadership amid fluctuating results. When asked about the pressure that comes with leading Ferrari and the timing of the next major upgrade, Leclerc kept his response light-hearted at first: "Are you trying to get answers from me?"

He confirmed the team is working hard to bring updates as soon as possible: "Everybody's pushing very hard to have them as early as possible. So it might be Austria, it might be earlier, I hope it's not later, and we'll see." Leclerc emphasised how critical these developments are to maintaining momentum, especially after recent podium finishes.

On the topic of Vasseur, Leclerc defended the Frenchman’s role and leadership: "It's not an easy position to be, but we are so lucky to be in red... I've always said, I mean, Fred is a very important part of the team and we have a very good relationship and I trust in Fred."

Leclerc made it clear that while external pressure is part of the job at Ferrari, the team is focusing on what it can control—performance on track. "I just cannot wait to be on track tomorrow to stop speaking about these kinds of things and focus on driving."