Leclerc does not anticipate a challenge from Hamilton - Arnoux.

      Charles Leclerc's difficulties against Lewis Hamilton are increasingly becoming a mental battle, as noted by former Ferrari driver Rene Arnoux. After a challenging first season alongside Leclerc in 2025, Hamilton is now positioning himself as Kimi Antonelli’s main rival for the championship. Arnoux admits he did not anticipate this development.

      "I believed Hamilton's age had dulled his edge, yet he has shown himself to be a true champion," he remarked to La Gazzetta dello Sport. "He has taken the team under his wing, winning over the fans."

      The 77-year-old Frenchman also commended Ferrari’s swift technical advancements, stating, "Ferrari has made significant progress. The upgrades have been effective, and there is still a long way to go in the championship. All the elements are in place for an exciting contest with Mercedes."

      Meanwhile, the atmosphere in the other garage is starkly different. Leclerc has faced a tough period, suffering crashes in Monaco and Barcelona, while Hamilton has been steadily building his confidence with the car. "Currently, his morale is at its lowest," Arnoux said regarding the Monegasque. "He has displayed an unexpected fragility, committing too many errors."

      Arnoux believes the issue now extends beyond technicalities. "He is clearly uncomfortable with the car, but the main issue is psychological. He didn't expect Hamilton to be this competitive."

      He also shared his thoughts on the ongoing discussion about Mercedes team orders after Toto Wolff acknowledged that they might have lost the race in Barcelona due to George Russell and Antonelli being allowed to compete against each other. Wolff has hinted that Mercedes might adopt a different strategy in similar circumstances in the future. However, Arnoux maintains that the outcome of the Spanish Grand Prix did not warrant intervention, remarking, "It's still early; we aren't even halfway through the championship." He pointed out that "In Barcelona, George Russell was quicker than Kimi Antonelli in both free practice and qualifying. The team couldn't ask him to yield."

      Nevertheless, Arnoux perceives distinct pressures on the two Mercedes drivers. "The situation for the Briton is complex," he explained. "Everything is on the line. If Russell fails to secure the world championship, his future will be uncertain." In contrast, Antonelli "can compete with greater assurance," Arnoux added. "At just 19 years old and with only 31 races under his belt, the expectations are entirely different."

      Arnoux believes the championship leader also enjoys substantial backing within Mercedes. "Kimi is well-liked by the team and Wolff, and I think he has a strong chance of capturing the title." However, he cautioned Mercedes to be cautious about allowing a rivalry to intensify. "They need to be careful—there have been too many teammate incidents in the past."