Villeneuve states that Hamilton is now taking Ferrari's place from Leclerc.

      Jacques Villeneuve believes Lewis Hamilton is taking control of Ferrari from Charles Leclerc. The 1997 world champion points out that Hamilton's recent comeback, highlighted by his victory in Barcelona, has revealed a vulnerability in Leclerc's standing, despite the Monegasque's long-term affiliation with the team and his recent contract extension. "Ferrari needs to focus on Hamilton if they want even a slight chance of winning," Villeneuve stated during the Sky F1 show. "The choice is simple because Leclerc is significantly behind."

      Villeneuve contends that Leclerc has had ample opportunity to assert himself as Ferrari’s clear leader but has not fully seized that chance. "Leclerc had the time to build the team around him, but he hasn’t," he noted. "He never had to create anything for himself; everything was handed to him." The Canadian asserts that Hamilton is now shifting the dynamics of power.

      "Lewis didn’t have a stellar season last year," Villeneuve remarked. "It takes time to build." However, he added, Hamilton has now taken ownership of both the car and the team. "Leclerc was content making a good impression next to Lewis, but when Lewis stepped up, took charge of the car and the team, and started giving his all without holding back, Leclerc wasn’t prepared."

      These comments further illustrate the ongoing public exchange between Villeneuve and Hamilton. Earlier this month in Montreal, Hamilton seemingly took a jab at Villeneuve while talking about legendary drivers. "He was a great driver," Hamilton said regarding Jacques’ father, Gilles Villeneuve. "And obviously far better than his son." Villeneuve responded to this remark by saying, "He did make a foolish comment in Montreal. I thought, 'Why would he say that?' I don’t recall criticizing him, so I don’t believe it was directed at me."