F1 | Ferrari, Binotto: "Leclerc can repeat Schumi's path, the timing of Vettel's farewell is right"

Among the various topics of discussion, in the interview given yesterday to Corriere della Sera, Mattia binotto also discussed its two current drivers: Charles Leclerc and Sebastian Vettel. The Ferrari team principal praised the talent of the Monegasque, who last December renewed his existing contract with the Cavallino until the end of 2024, underlining that he can open a winning cycle with the Red.

As for the German, however, who is about to leave Ferrari after six seasons, Binotto is certain that he has made the right choice by announcing so early the decision to part ways and focus on the Spaniard Carlos Sainz.

"He (Leclerc, ed) he grew up with us, knows the values ​​of Ferrari and is very close to us. He is part of a special family and he knows it. This year is important, I think one day he will say: 'Those difficulties were useful to me'. He has the talent, he is also growing as a leader in this difficult period. I often talk to him about Schumacher, who arrived in '96 and champion in 2000. He can repeat that journey".

"Vettel is happy to compete. In this phase he is showing what a nice person he is: the team has given him a lot in recent years and he feels he owes a lot – admitted Binotto – His desire to contribute to making the season end better is strong. The end of the relationship so early? Yes, I'm sure we were in April. We love him, and it was right to give him the chance to organize himself".