Leclerc handed Schumacher-inspired ‘copycat’ advice to close gap to Hamilton

The former Williams driver, assessing the struggles that have affected the Monegasque since the Canadian Grand Prix, suggested that adopting elements of Hamilton’s set-up could help Leclerc maximise Ferrari’s current package.

Speaking via a gambling platform, Patrese insisted that Leclerc remains a top-tier talent, but stressed he must regain confidence and the right mindset to properly challenge Hamilton. The 73-year-old also suggested that, on pure pace, Leclerc may still have a slight edge over his Ferrari teammate.

“I think that Charles is not lost. He has a fantastic car, a leading car, a winning car, Lewis and Charles. A great team. When Charles really gets back all his strength and mindset, then he can be a really big opponent for Lewis. Probably from the speed point of view, he can be a little bit quicker than Lewis,” he explained.

The former Williams F1 driver went on to argue that Leclerc must recognise Ferrari now have a race-winning package, and encouraged him to take inspiration from Hamilton’s technical direction if needed to improve performance.

Patrese also referenced Michael Schumacher’s early years in F1, highlighting how the seven-time world champion benefited from observing and adapting to teammates’ set-ups.

“In 1993 Michael Schumacher, who was without doubt very quick, was listening to what I was saying in the debrief about the setup of the car and he was copying my set-up. Then he was beating me! Sometimes you have to use the experience of your teammate to perform.”

Leclerc is currently on a run of two races without finishes. At his home race in Monaco, he crashed during the final stretch of the race, and last time out in Barcelona, Leclerc suffered a power steering issue which forced him to retire with a few laps to the chequered flag.

Adding to the discussion around Leclerc’s recent struggles, Juan Pablo Montoya also encouraged the Ferrari driver to take lessons from Hamilton as he navigates a difficult run of form.

Speaking on the Monegasque’s situation, the Colombian highlighted the importance of observing how Hamilton has helped elevate Ferrari since joining the team. “This is a really important time, for example, for Charles to look at how Lewis brought the team forward and learn. Of course, he wants to beat Lewis, and he will beat Lewis in a lot of races as well, but this is an amazing opportunity that Charles has to understand what makes Lewis Hamilton a seven-time world champion.”