Charles Leclerc is one of the most talented and exciting prospects on the F1 grid. The Monegasque driver got his first taste of being involved in a title fight this year against Max Verstappen. However, his title fight ended up being tame, eventually. But popular ESPN F1 reporter Nate Saunders pointed out key similarities and one major difference between Leclerc and 7-time champion, Lewis Hamilton.

Leclerc started off the season on a roll as he won 2 of the first 3 races. The title challenge looked exciting, as many thought the Ferrari would sustain their challenge against the Red Bull. However, it was not to be as Ferrari’s championship charge soon died down and Max Verstappen dominated the grid with some brilliant driving.

For Leclerc personally, it’s been a rollercoaster season. Ferrari had the right car to compete against Red Bull. However, they faltered their chances and collectively made crucial mistakes to hand Max and RBR the advantage.

F1 reporter Nate Saunders talks about Leclerc and his habit of criticizing himself. Furthermore, he also explains how Lewis is the same, but points out one major difference between the two.

Nate Saunders said, “Lewis is a bit more like Leclerc, but he’s grown to be better at how to deal with that. You know that self-criticism. His emotions I think make him a better driver. I’m not sure whether Leclerc’s do all the time, I think he gets himself down a bit.”

READ MORE: Charles Leclerc Encouraged to Study the Same Chronicle That Made Lewis Hamilton

If Leclerc learns to control his emotions in a positive way, there’s no doubt he has all the talent to become the world champion in the future.

Lewis Hamilton sympathized with Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc after his mistake cost him the win

In a race where Charles Leclerc had the chance to cut down Verstappen’s lead, the Monegasque’s error spun him out of the race and handed victory to his title rival. Verstappen extended his lead in the championship by 63 points in what was a very crucial French GP to Leclerc’s title charge.

Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton has come out in support of the Ferrari ace. He sympathized with Leclerc as well as his teammate Carlos Sainz for carrying the pressure of the Maranello team. Lewis said, “It’s been great to see the pace of the Ferrari this year,” Hamilton said. “I’m gutted for Charles, who’s being doing a great job, as has Carlos.”

He further added, “It’s not easy though, having that pace and that performance and maintaining it. It’s a tough job and I feel for the whole team because I know what that can feel like. But they’re a great team, and they’ll continue to keep their heads down.”

Leclerc’s mistake gifted Hamilton the chance to finish 2nd in the race. However, the Silver Arrows man acknowledged the fact that they were still way off the top.

WATCH THIS STORY: Lewis Hamilton Sounds Off the Alarm Bells for Mercedes F1

Both Leclerc and Hamilton will look to challenge Max Verstappen next year to a title fight. Moreover, Red Bull’s punishment will act as an added motivation for the duo. Will either of Charles Leclerc or Lewis Hamilton be able to challenge the Red Bull of Max Verstappen?