Charles Leclerc believes any comparisons between his first year at Ferrari and Michael Schumacher’s are far-fetched.
The Monegasque has made an instant impact at the Italian team scoring five poles and claiming back-to-back victories at Spa and Monza as he challenges the supremacy of teammate Sebastian Vettel.
That left FIA president and former Ferrari boss Jean Todt to suggest Leclerc is already on course to lead the Scuderia into the future just as the seven-time world champion did.
He also noted that back in 1996, Schumacher’s first year in red, he also won both in Belgium and Italy.
“It’s always very nice to hear these type of things, but I’m only 21, I haven’t proved anything compared to what Michael has,” Leclerc told RaceFans in response to those comments.
“So, for now, it’s way too far to speak about these things I’m working on my career, trying to have the best career possible on my side.
“But obviously to be compared with this one, with these people it’s always an honour but it seems very far to me.”
Still given the rapport Leclerc has already formed with the Tifosi and initial indications from Ferrari boss Mattia Binotto that the 22-year-old will lead the team into next generation, those comparisons may well only continue.