Alesi supports Leclerc despite Hamilton's comeback.

      Jean Alesi has dismissed claims that Charles Leclerc is following the same frustrating trajectory he encountered at Ferrari. The iconic former Ferrari driver was questioned by Italian journalist Leo Turrini on whether Leclerc is experiencing an 'Alesi syndrome' — loved by fans but unlikely to win a world championship.

      "Not at all," the 62-year-old responded to Quotidiano Nazionale. "The comparison isn’t valid." Alesi recognized a commonality between them. "I joined Maranello during a phase of technical struggle, to the point where my close friend Michael (Schumacher), an extraordinary talent, didn’t win immediately," he remarked. "Leclerc faced a similar challenge."

      However, unlike himself, Alesi believes that the Monegasque driver has already proven himself. "He doesn't have to prove anything," he stated. "He’s an excellent driver, and that’s evident." Alesi also highlighted Leclerc’s recent long-term contract extension, amidst increasing scrutiny following Lewis Hamilton’s victory in Barcelona and Ferrari’s decision to center development around the seven-time champion.

      "The choice to extend his contract indicates that Charles has faith in the technical project," said Alesi. "He has seen something that instills confidence." When asked if Leclerc’s recent downturn could be partly due to Hamilton's comeback, Alesi noted that the British driver's resurgence should not have been unexpected. "Lewis certainly didn’t forget how to drive," he chuckled. "I was pleased with his win in Barcelona. I know how significant it was for him." He then joked about Hamilton's initial win with Ferrari, saying, "Hamilton has caught up with me. At Ferrari, we’re tied in terms of wins!"

      While Alesi remains hopeful about Ferrari's future, he doesn't believe the Maranello team can surpass Mercedes this year despite its recent progress. "Ferrari has a solid project, it's competitive, but it's not on par with Mercedes," he said. "You won’t catch the Silver Arrows this season. You can certainly win a few races, but the championship is out of reach."

      Instead, Alesi sees championship leader Kimi Antonelli as the clear favorite. "The guy is too strong," he remarked. "Russell isn’t consistent. I like him, but Kimi outperforms him in race pace. In a race, Kimi is a beast!" Alesi also expressed support for Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur. "Fred has experience," he said. "But he needs the opportunity to continue his work. Ferrari has changed too much and too often."