Charles Leclerc names Lewis Hamilton side effect that 'made everything worse'

Charles Leclerc has revealed that the hype generated by Lewis Hamilton's arrival at Ferrari 'made everything worse' for the team at the start of the campaign. The seven-time world champion arrived to immense fanfare, sparking a frenzy among media and fans at Maranello.

When Hamilton turned out for his first sessions at the Fiorano test circuit, thousands of Ferrari fans crowded outside the facility to catch a glimpse of the Brit in action. The hype was the biggest storyline of the off-season. With his arrival also came increased expectations. Ferrari ended the 2024 campaign just 14 points behind champions McLaren in the Constructors' Championship, sparking hope that with a couple of key adjustments, Hamilton and Leclerc could fight for the Scuderia's first crown since 2007 in the new year.

Unfortunately, things went in the opposite direction, and Andrea Stella's squad have dominated, winning all but three races heading into the Hungarian Grand Prix. Ferrari are holding on to second place ahead of Mercedes and Red Bull, but Hamilton is still waiting for his first podium with his new organisation.

Asked if the seven-time world champion's move created extra pressure for the team, Leclerc replied: "Definitely. The fact that there was so much hype around the team at the beginning of the year made everything worse.

"When we then started the season, I think everybody thought we were going to win the championship, and unfortunately, that wasn't the case. Then there were rumours, and that took a bigger proportion than what we want. These are not things we can control.

"As I was saying earlier, it's part of Ferrari. It's always been the case, and it will never change. We cannot focus on that. The best thing we can do is try and not think about those things as much as possible."

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The first half has been demanding for all members of the Ferrari team. Aside from the on-track struggles, has been affected by constant speculation about Fred Vasseur's future. This was put to bed in Hungary, with the Frenchman receiving a new contract ahead of media day on Thursday.

Hamilton opened up about his desire for a recharge at the Hungaroring. "This one's definitely been the most intense one, I would say," he confessed. "Just from a work perspective, integrating into a new culture, into a new team.

"It's not gone smoothly in all areas, and it's been a real battle. Yeah, my spirit, I definitely need to get away and recharge, be around the kids, laugh, let go. I'm sure there'll be some tears at some point, and I think that's really healthy."