Kimi Raikkonen believes his Ferrari replacement Charles Leclerc will enjoy a “smooth” transition into the Italian team.
The Monegasque earned his seat after impressing in his rookie Formula 1 season with Sauber and is anticipated to take the Scuderia forward into the next generation.
However, at just 21, Leclerc is the youngest man to race for Ferrari in over half a century and, given the team’s unique status, whether he can deal with the pressure that comes with his new position is one question some are still asking.
“He [Leclerc] knows the team because he’s been with Ferrari for quite a few years now, so you know, it’s not like he is going in a new place,” Raikkonen commented to Motorsport.com
“You know, it [Ferrari] is a special place to be. It’s a bit of hassle at certain times, but that’s how it’s always been, and it’s easier [for him] not to get involved in too many things and just do what he is hired to do.
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“Often we are used to things being done [in a certain way], but at Ferrari sometimes it is a bit [different],” the 2007 world champion continued.
“If that doesn’t disturb you, it’s good. Don’t get involved and then just do what they ask you but because he knows the people it should be quite easy and smooth.”
Raikkonen was also asked about Ferrari’s decision to drop Maurizio Arrivabene in place of technical director Mattia Binotto, something he admits caught him by surprise.
“I think I read it the same like everybody else,” he said. “Or actually I didn’t read. My mom’s boyfriend asked me ‘did you see?’ I said ‘no’ because we were in Finland, and not interested to see any news.
“I had no idea, and now I have no idea [about] reasons and [it’s] not my business to know either and to get involved.”