Leclerc would back Antonelli for title if Ferrari falls short: 'He reminds me of myself'

Charles Leclerc says he would be happy to see Kimi Antonelli crowned the 2026 Formula 1 champion if Ferrari cannot win the title, admitting the Mercedes rookie's enthusiasm reminds him of his own debut. The Monegasque driver, fourth after his Silverstone win, is focused on adding more victories rather than chasing a distant championship lead.

Why it matters:

With Antonelli leading Russell by 59 points and Leclerc trailing by 81, Ferrari's title hopes are fading. Leclerc's willingness to back a rival underscores the mutual respect between them and highlights Antonelli's remarkable rookie season.

The details:

• Leclerc took his only 2026 win at Silverstone when Antonelli suffered a car issue while chasing him, dropping the Mercedes driver out of the points.
• Leclerc told Sky Sports Italia: "I'm not thinking about the championship just yet; I want to win another race. The work I'm putting in is paying off."
• He added: "If Ferrari didn't win the title, I'd be happy for Kimi to win it. He's incredibly enthusiastic, it reminds me of myself when I made my debut."
• At the Dutch GP, Antonelli leads with 219 points, ahead of Hamilton (169), Russell (160), Leclerc (138), Norris (128), and Verstappen (109).

Between the lines:

Leclerc's praise frames Antonelli as a generational peer, echoing his own rapid path into F1. The comments also ease pressure on Ferrari's fading title challenge while keeping harmony with Hamilton, who sits second.

What's next:

• Leclerc wants Ferrari to keep pushing aggressive upgrades, citing McLaren's Hungary gains as proof major developments can still reshape the order.
• With the title likely out of reach, Ferrari is shifting focus toward maximising wins and building momentum for 2027.