Charles Leclerc’s Michael Schumacher-Like Relationship With Ferrari F1 Being ‘Put to the Test’

Charles Leclerc and Ferrari have taken struggled to compete with Red Bull in recent weeks. While the Monegasque suffered a power unit issue in Spain, a poor strategy decision left him stranded in P4 during Monaco GP. As a result, he has lost valuable ground on Max Verstappen as the battle for the championship intensifies.

Red Bull, on the other hand, has capitalized on Ferrari’s errors. Things are smooth sailing in the Bulls camp and the gap between the teams has extended. The Milton Keynes outfit who had their fair share of issues earlier is now 36 points ahead of Ferrari in the standings.

Leclerc and Ferrari have maintained a strong rapport. However, F1 commentator Martin Brundle believes tensions are boiling between the 24-year-old and the Ferrari management after Monaco.

Is Charles Leclerc not content with Ferrari management?

Charles Leclerc secured a stunning pole in Monaco. On a track that is hard to overtake, Ferrari came into the race with eyes set on victory. However, it turned out to be a frustrating afternoon as Red Bull went home with more points on board.

Speaking of Leclerc’s fortunes, Brundle said, “You can only be sorry for local hero Charles Leclerc. He scored an incredible pole and led the race comfortably, but strategy doomed him to finish fourth.”

The call to bring Leclerc into the pits cost him the race. Sergio Perez overtook him and maintained the lead. However, he was in line to secure a podium. As it turned out, another poor decision to double-stack Sainz and Leclerc costed the Monegasque his place on the podium.

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Brundle compared the relationship between Leclerc and Ferrari to the one Michael Schumacher and Ferrari had. But, it could be tested if Ferrari continues to make poor choices.

“The mutual admiration and affection that exists between Leclerc and Ferrari reminds me of Michael Schumacher’s relationship with this team, but it is put to the test on the side of Leclerc, who has just lost two wins and the championship lead in the space of a week,” he added.

Leclerc opens up on Ferrari’s strategy

The strategy by Ferrari clearly did not satisfy Leclerc. He made his frustrations known on the radio and after the race as he once again finished behind Verstappen.

He stated, “It was a freaking disaster today. The win was clearly in our hands: we had the performance, we had everything. I just don’t really understand the call that I had and I need explanations for now.”

READ MORE: Breaking Down Ferrari’s Costly Strategic Meltdown at the Monaco GP

However, the Monegasque is only 9 points behind the championship leader Verstappen. Can Leclerc and Ferrari overcome the in-form Dutchman? We will have to wait and watch.