Leclerc advised against Red Bull move even if Verstappen leaves
Ralf Schumacher warns Charles Leclerc that moving to Red Bull would be a mistake, even if Max Verstappen leaves. He describes Red Bull as chaotic and advises Leclerc to stay with Ferrari, which he sees as a more stable and promising long-term project.
Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher has advised Charles Leclerc against a potential move to Red Bull, even if Max Verstappen were to vacate the coveted seat. Schumacher argues that Red Bull is currently a "chaotic" long-term project, making it wiser for Leclerc to stay with a resurgent Ferrari that is just starting to find its footing.
Why it matters:
The driver market is on the brink of potential upheaval with Verstappen's future uncertain. Schumacher's public counsel highlights the complex calculus drivers face: the allure of a top seat versus the stability and upward trajectory of a rebuilding project. His analysis suggests the perceived hierarchy of top teams is shifting, with Ferrari's current project being viewed as a more sensible long-term bet than the internal turbulence at Red Bull.
The details:
- Schumacher, speaking on the Backstage Boxengasse podcast, stated Red Bull is "not really an option" for Leclerc right now, describing the team as "a bit all over the place" and "a bit chaotic."
- He cited a lack of clear external communication and the notable absence of advisor Helmut Marko's guiding influence as contributing factors to the instability.
- In contrast, he views Ferrari as a team that is "just starting to work," implying Leclerc would be unwise to abandon a project on the rise.
- Schumacher also doubted Ferrari would even consider releasing Leclerc, noting the foreseeable end of Lewis Hamilton's career means the team needs to retain one established star to build around.
- Separately, Leclerc himself recently offered a one-word assessment of F1's top teams, labeling Ferrari as "passion," McLaren as "speed," Mercedes as "precision," and Red Bull as "ambition."
What's next:
The advice underscores a pivotal moment for Leclerc's career. While a Red Bull seat remains the most coveted in theory, the practical reality appears less attractive. Leclerc's decision will hinge on Ferrari's ability to convert its current momentum into a genuine title-contending car. If they succeed, staying will be vindicated. If they falter, the pressure to seek a top seat elsewhere will intensify, regardless of the chaos that may come with it.