F1: ‘Charles Leclerc can lead Ferrari as Michael Schumacher once did’

Todt: Leclerc can lead Ferrari

Charles Leclerc can follow in Michael Schumacher’s footsteps and lead Ferrari to Formula 1 world championship success in the future.

That’s the opinion of Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) president Jean Todt, who was formerly team principal of the Scuderia.

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Leclerc secured his maiden career F1 race victory at the Belgian Grand Prix on 1 September then followed it up seven days later by winning the Italian GP at Monza, Ferrari’s home race.

Todt told Auto Bild: “Charles is extremely strong mentally. He has the makings of a great champion and the same natural way to lead a team as Michael Schumacher once did.

“He represents the future of Formula 1 and Ferrari.”

Haas reveals revised livery

After ending the partnership with title sponsor Rich Energy, the Haas F1 Team has unveiled a revised livery ahead of this weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix.

Autosport reports that the American team’s livery on the VF-19 car will continue to have a black-and-gold colour scheme, despite Rich Energy’s exit.

Wolff ready for Red Bull battle

Mercedes have yet to win after the summer break but they head to F1’s night race in Singapore with healthy leads in both championships.

In the constructors’ championship Mercedes have 505 points from 14 races - a 154-point lead over Ferrari - while in the drivers’ standings Lewis Hamilton leads with 284 points, 63 ahead of team-mate Valtteri Bottas.

The Silver Arrows are aiming for a fourth straight victory in Singapore, Sky Sports reports, but team boss Toto Wolff is predicting a fierce battle with Red Bull and Ferrari.

“We knew that Spa and Monza would be difficult for us,” said Wolff. “On paper, we should be strong in Singapore - as should Red Bull be. Let’s see if we are really demolishing them there.

“But I have no doubt that Ferrari will have learned and will have a good package there, better than Hungary.”

Sunday’s race at the Marina Bay Street Circuit begins at 1.10pm (UK time).