Ferrari Confirm Driver Hierarchy for 2019

Ferrari team boss Mattia Binotto has confirmed that Sebastian Vettel will be treated as the lead driver. In the process, Ferrari newcomer Charles LeClerc will be acting as the rear gunner.

The internal battle at the Scuderia is one of the most anticipated stories of 2019 with the German four-time champion up against highly-rated youngster Charles Leclerc.

Many have predicted that the 21-year-old could prove too hot to handle for Vettel. What also works against Vettel is the fact that he made several key errors last year. However, it appears that LeClerc will have to establish himself before gaining equal status.

“I think it’s normal, especially early in the season, that if there are particular situations our priority will be Sebastian,” Binotto told ESPN at the launch of the new SF90 on Friday.

“He is the guide with which we aim for the championship, but there’s no prejudice and the absolute priority is for Ferrari to win.”

It is understandable that the approach will likely disappoint many, given the obvious talent that the Monaco native has. It was sort of a travesty, considering the fact that Leclerc practically waltzed into the Italian team after just one season. Many believe that the 21-year old can beat Vettel immediately.

According to Binotto, in the longer term that sort of scenario would actually welcome.

“To have a driver pairing so competitive I think it’s not a problem but an opportunity,” he stated.

“Sebastian has little to prove and he remains our guide. Charles still has to learn, as pointed out by himself, but we know how talented he is.”

“I hope to have this problem of having two drivers to manage among the top positions.”

Hopefully for Ferrari’s sake, it does not turn into a Hamilton-Alonso-McLaren situation or there will be a lot of headaches.