Rosberg: Hamilton-Leclerc Duel Key to Ferrari’s Success

Rosberg sees Ferrari’s internal Hamilton-Leclerc rivalry as decisive for success, potentially giving them an edge in the title race.

Nico Rosberg, former teammate of Lewis Hamilton at Mercedes F1, believes the Briton’s “inner fire” could be reignited by his move to Ferrari.

During their partnership at Mercedes, they secured all the drivers’ championships—three for Hamilton and one (in 2016) for Rosberg.

“Lewis has nothing left to prove to anyone,” said Rosberg, 39, to La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“Yet, he’s found a new way to push boundaries—his fresh start with Ferrari.”

“I know he’s driven by a deep love for motorsport and a burning desire to rediscover himself.”

While Hamilton’s move to Ferrari has sparked worldwide interest on an almost unprecedented scale, some critics predict Charles Leclerc will quickly assert dominance.

However, Rosberg warns that the Briton should not be underestimated.

“A change of environment like the one he’s experiencing now can reignite a racing driver’s inner flame. Lewis is already a legend. I think taking such a risk at this stage of his career speaks volumes about his hunger for success.”

“Lewis will grow through this challenge and continue to evolve, both as a racing driver and as a person.”

Ferrari team principal Frédéric Vasseur is determined that Hamilton and Leclerc will start the 2025 season as equals—with any team hierarchy to be established as the season progresses. But perhaps not too late if the drivers’ title is within reach.

“I see Max Verstappen above all other drivers. And he’s automatically favored, which is an advantage for the title. The best of the younger generation might be George Russell, but Charles is at an equally high level,” notes Rosberg.

“Lewis, on the other hand, struggled a lot in 2024, and it seemed like he didn’t fully understand why. If we take that as a starting point, then Charles will beat Hamilton, just as George did.”

“But be careful. Hamilton is the greatest of all time, and I trust him to return to his usual level. In that case, he could easily end the year slightly ahead of Leclerc.”

“But what should Ferrari do if the drivers’ title is within reach? Good luck to Vasseur making a decision if both are neck and neck. And it can’t be delayed, as 2024 showed with McLaren.”

Apparently, Rosberg’s two daughters are fans of Lewis. He confirms it and jokes.

“It’s true. It’s more than a soft spot—it’s a big problem! No, it’s great. It’s kind of him. We had a bit of a rivalry. Now, every Christmas, my two kids have a huge box of gifts from him waiting on our doorstep. It’s a nice gesture.”

“He has to stay outside the door. But he can leave the gifts!”