Binotto sees comparisons between Leclerc and Ferrari icon Villeneuve

Ferrari finally has someone competing for wins and the world title again this year. The popularity of Charles Leclerc is therefore increasing. Perhaps the Monegasque can even achieve legendary status, thinks his team boss Mattia Binotto.

Passion

The comparison is made with iconic driver Gilles Villeneuve. The Canadian was killed 40 years ago during qualifying for the Zolder Grand Prix in Belgium. Recently, Leclerc was once allowed to drive Villeneuve's 1979 Ferrari 312T. Binotto says to Motorsport.com that there are clear comparisons between both drivers.

The Italian is not only talking about the way of driving and the talent. He especially praises the passion that Leclerc has and Villeneuve had. According to Binotto, being part of Ferrari is also belonging to the myth of an illustrious brand. Not every driver can deal with that. Villeneuve can, just as Leclerc appears to be able to. Binotto hopes that the Monegasque wins more Grands Prix than the Canadian. The latter remained stuck at six victories.

Craziness

Villeneuve drove for Ferrari from 1977 until his death in 1982. In 1979 he finished second in the championship. The car he did that with was by no means a safe car. Leclerc noticed that too, when he took the wheel recently. Binotto can only say that the safety of the drivers was not a priority at the time.

Fortunately, that has changed completely, according to Binotto. He praises the efforts of the FIA, Formula 1 and the teams. Why did people dare to race in the past? According to Binotto, because the drivers of the time were a bit crazy. They realized the risk they were taking and yet they got behind the wheel of their cars.