Starting the 2023 season with the same disappointments of 2022 Ferrari has a lot to answer for after Bahrain. The race in the desert showcased there are still a lot of shortcomings in the SF-23. This is not how Charles Leclerc would like to see his season progress, especially after the hugely disappointing 2022. This is exactly why a former boss of the Scuderia is advising the Monegasque to take things into his own hands and demand more from the team. In short, the former boss is asking Leclerc to channel his inner Michael Schumacher.

After the mishaps of the 2022 season, Leclerc often voiced his frustrations with the team. However, Ferrari subdued the Monegasque after the initial few public outbursts. This scenario showcased Ferrari’s hold over Leclerc and the former Scuderia boss and current F1 president wants Leclerc to change this situation.

For context, the German seven-time world champion was a ruthless competitor. The German also had a fierce nature and always demanded more from his team. Schumacher always made sure he is the numero uno in a team and always maintained that hold.

Speaking to La Stampa and quoted by F1 Maximaal, Domenicali said Leclerc needs the same attitude towards his team. “A great driver should be a point of reference for the team. These are important years for him. He must demand a competitive car and avoid mistakes.”

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Despite his true nature, Leclerc needs to project dominance and take control of the team in a bid to serve his championship agenda. This is exactly what Michael Schumacher did as well.

Michael Schumacher always conducted himself differently to stay on top of the game: Charles Leclerc needs to mimic his behavior

The German was kind-hearted and not as ruthless as he always projected. However, the German maintained that image to have a competitive edge. Schumacher’s press officer Sabine Kehm revealed that during a conversation on Beyond the Grid podcast.

She revealed, “Michael has always been a very warm person. But he didn’t want that to be seen to the outside because he felt that would kind of take away something of the competitiveness – at least in the outer perception.”

The Monegasque needs the same attitude toward his team if he wants to become a world champion.

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The first step from Leclerc should be his demand to be considered the number one driver on the team. He also should work closely with the team to develop a better car. It will be interesting to see if Leclerc does take this ruthless route.