Jolyon Palmer explains what’s currently being ‘overlooked’ about Charles Leclerc amid Lewis Hamilton hype at Ferrari

It has been a tough start to the season for Ferrari in 2025, despite the hype surrounding Lewis Hamilton and his move to Maranello.

The seven-time world champion currently sits seventh in the Drivers’ Championship, having suffered a disqualification along with Charles Leclerc in China.

Hamilton was thrown out of the Chinese Grand Prix after winning the Sprint race because of excessive skid block wear, which has now impacted how Ferrari set up his car.

The changes to the setup parameters have impacted Hamilton the most, however, prior experience has proven to be important with Leclerc bringing in the results.

Discussing Leclerc on the F1 Nation podcast, former F1 driver Jolyon Palmer believes there is one thing that has been ‘overlooked’ by people.

Jolyon Palmer thinks Charles Leclerc’s results ‘overlooked’ amid Lewis Hamilton hype

Leclerc has scored the bulk of Ferrari’s points so far this season, achieving their first podium in a Grand Prix at Saudi Arabia.

His consistent results have put him on 47 points so far this season, ahead of rookie Andrea Kimi Antonelli and within 20 points of George Russell. Amid Hamilton’s struggles, Palmer thinks Leclerc’s performances have gone unnoticed.

“When you look at his last season, he’s [Leclerc] been really phenomenal. He’s been able to string together consistent weekends, bar the occasional strategy gaffe that Ferrari still did last year,” said Palmer.

“He’s just a more consistent driver and if he got that 2022 chance again, I think he’d be a much more formidable challenger.

“It has been overlooked because all the storylines have been about Lewis, but Charles has been strong and his drive in Jeddah was proof of the pudding. He drove that Ferrari to a podium they never thought they would get at the start of the season.”

Charles Leclerc wants Ferrari to change one thing on 2025 F1 car

There is no doubt that Leclerc’s performances have been the result of knowing the car better than Hamilton, something that has been evidenced at recent races.

Leclerc has constantly asked Ferrari for more front wing during pit stops, as this is one parameter they can change while out on track.

This should help him dial out the understeer, but too much can cause unwanted drag. Leclerc is constantly adjusting to find the sweet spot, whereas Hamilton is always one step behind.

Ferrari will be hopeful that upgrades they introduce at the upcoming European races will improve the fortunes for both their drivers, so they can mount a title assult.