LeClerc Arrival is a Warning to Vettel

Charles Leclerc’s move to Ferrari has many fans anticipating a new contender on the scene and Alex Zanardi believes that it should also serve as an alarm to his teammate Sebastian Vettel.

Although Vettel has been the de facto number one driver at Ferrari since his arrival, Leclerc’s ability and momentum having impressed at Sauber could rock the German’s ship.

The former F1 driver believes that Vettel could use this as motivation, adding that the four-time champion will need to pick up his game in 2019 in order to become a world champion once again.

“It is a very positive choice, and also useful to give Vettel a little alarm, not that he needs it,” he explained.

“Raikkonen is still a great champion, but a check was needed. Leclerc’s talent is great, but I hope Vettel remains the leader of the team, because in recent times Ferrari’s problem was not the drivers.

“Now we need to improve the car and beat Hamilton, who never makes mistakes.”

Ferrari arguably had a car capable of winning both championship’s in 2018 but with the Monegasque driver joining Vettel at Ferrari, it could herald a changing of the guard at the Prancing Horse.

The 21-year old replaces Kimi Raikkonen, who in turn, take LeClerc’s place at Sauber. Leclerc will become the second-youngest driver in Ferrari history when he lines up at the Australian Grand Prix, with the team having previously placed much stock in experience over potential.

Vettel is gearing up for a third title charge in as many years, having fallen short against Lewis Hamilton in 2017 and 2018. However, Leclerc has been tipped to have his own say in the championship fight.

The question is, can Ferrari produce and car quick enough to challenge Mercedes? Also, when Ferrari eventually pull off the ‘number 1, number 2’ trick, who will come out ahead?