It is difficult to picture the current Ferrari F1 team without Charles Leclerc, who has become its defining figure since joining in 2019. Recently, Gino Rosato, a former longtime manager within Ferrari, shared the behind-the-scenes story of how Leclerc initially secured his place in the iconic red team.

Rosato worked with Ferrari for over three decades, playing a crucial role in their achievements alongside champions like Michael Schumacher, Kimi Raikkonen, Sebastian Vettel, and eventually Charles Leclerc. Over time, he became an essential part of Ferrari’s senior management group.

During a recent episode of the Pitstop podcast, Rosato recounted his discussions with Jean Todt, the former Ferrari team principal and CEO, as well as with Nicolas Todt, Leclerc’s manager and Jean Todt’s son.

“I remember bringing Charles to Arrivabene the first day. And Nicholas Todt, his manager, you know, they’re up my ass, which is normal like any other manager is trying to push in his driver. But this kid’s special. But I think the luck that I had is that Sergio Marchione (former chairman and CEO of Ferrari), being as brilliant as he was, wanted his own (Max) Verstappen. And that was the possibility I had of ‘Well, let’s go try and see who can be the next Verstappen,'” said Rosato.

Max Verstappen entered Formula 1 in 2014, four years ahead of Leclerc, quickly establishing himself as a prodigious talent and future multiple world champion. As Red Bull’s key discovery, Verstappen set the benchmark Ferrari hoped their new star could emulate.

Rosato explained Ferrari’s strategy of nurturing talent internally rather than relying on expensive external signings. This approach led them to closely monitor Charles Leclerc, who had won back-to-back titles in F3 and F2, formerly known as GP3 and GP2.

“The guy (Leclerc) flew in GP3, flew in GP2… that’s the most I can do. When you’re special, which he is, the rest… I think my job became easier placing him at that point. By the time he hits GP2, all of Ferrari was interested in him.”

Leclerc made his Formula 1 debut in 2018 with Sauber, a team powered by Ferrari engines. In 2019, Ferrari promoted him to replace Kimi Raikkonen, partnering with four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel. Since then, Leclerc has become a cornerstone for Ferrari, even as teammates have come and gone.

Charles Leclerc’s Determination to Restore Ferrari’s Glory

Ferrari holds the record as the most successful team in F1 history but has not secured a drivers’ championship since Kimi Raikkonen in 2007. Charles Leclerc came closest to ending this drought when he finished second to Max Verstappen in the 2022 season.

The young driver remains deeply committed to returning Ferrari to its former dominant status. Following the Hungarian Grand Prix, Leclerc expressed his pride and personal mission to deliver victories for the team.

“I drive a Ferrari and that means a lot to me. It’s certainly an honor for me to be in this team, and my number one goal is to make this team win. I owe a lot to Ferrari. They believed in me and brought me to F1. Now I have to win,” he said via Sky Italy.

Leclerc further outlined his vision for the future, emphasizing his exclusive focus on leading Ferrari back to the top of the sport.

“I’m not indifferent to Max’s victories or those of Oscar and Lando, but what matters to me is bringing Ferrari back to the top. And I will do everything with Fred, with Lewis, and with everyone at Ferrari to try to win again; that’s my only obsession.”

Despite Leclerc’s ambitions, this season looks challenging for Ferrari, with McLaren expected to dominate both the drivers‘ and constructors‘ championships in 2025. Additionally, Mercedes is projected to regain strength under new regulations in 2026, meaning a return to the very top may take several more years.

The Long-Term Impact of Leclerc’s Role at Ferrari

Charles Leclerc’s rise within Ferrari reflects the team’s shift towards fostering young, homegrown talent rather than relying heavily on established stars. Gino Rosato’s efforts and belief in Leclerc’s potential have clearly paid off as Leclerc now represents the future of the Scuderia.

As the team faces fierce competition from McLaren, Mercedes, and others, Leclerc’s intense drive and dedication will be critical to Ferrari’s resurgence. His journey from Ferrari’s junior categories to its frontline driver demonstrates the importance of vision and patience in nurturing a champion.

Looking ahead, Ferrari’s success will depend on leveraging Leclerc’s talent alongside strategic team management, technological developments, and strong collaboration among key personnel like Fred and Lewis. While immediate victories may not be guaranteed, Leclerc’s obsession with winning keeps hope alive for Ferrari’s return to F1 glory.