Charles Leclerc has rejected claims that Ferrari has shifted its focus towards Lewis Hamilton this season, insisting the team dynamic remains unchanged. Speaking ahead of the British Grand Prix, the 28-year-old Monegasque driver dismissed suggestions that Hamilton receives preferential treatment following a strong start to the 2026 campaign.
Leclerc Denies Garage Shift
Hamilton, 41, has outscored Leclerc 125 points to 79 so far this season, sitting third in the Drivers' Standings behind Mercedes duo George Russell and Kimi Antonelli. Leclerc, by contrast, is sixth and has not finished on the podium since the Japanese Grand Prix in March. Despite the swing in performance, Leclerc said: "No, I don't think there's been a particular shift in the garage. A performance swing can happen. Last year it was one way, this year it's another way. As a driver, you just focus on your side. But Ferrari has always been family for me."
Contrasting Seasons
Last season, Leclerc finished one place above Hamilton in the standings but amassed 84 points more than the seven-time world champion, who struggled in his debut Ferrari year. However, Hamilton has rebounded strongly in 2026, crediting the team for listening to his guidance and improving the car. Leclerc, who has been with Ferrari for seven years since replacing Kimi Raikkonen, recorded his best championship finish of second in 2022 and has not placed below fifth in the last four seasons.
Team Orders Speculation
With Hamilton emerging as Ferrari's realistic title contender—46 points behind leader Antonelli—there has been speculation that the team may issue team orders to Leclerc later in the season to aid Hamilton's pursuit of a record eighth world crown. Leclerc responded: "We'll see how it is at the end of the season. No matter the situation I find myself in, of course, teams come first. But I don't really want to think about it as of now. I've got a lot to think about with my own performance at the moment, and that's where my focus is. Then we will see later on."
Skydiving Ban Contrast
Despite Leclerc's denial of favouritism, a recent incident at the Austrian Grand Prix hinted at differing treatment. During a post-race interview, Hamilton expressed a desire to skydive over the Red Bull Ring, suggesting Ferrari would allow it. However, Leclerc later revealed that Ferrari has banned him from skydiving, highlighting a potential double standard. Hamilton enters the British GP as favourite, having qualified fastest in Sprint Q3, while Leclerc qualified fifth for the Sprint Race.
