In a stunning revelation that has sent ripples through the Formula 1 world, Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc has uncovered a shocking detail about Lewis Hamilton’s car — one that not only raised questions about technical regulations but also triggered immediate action from Ferrari’s team principal, Frédéric Vasseur.

What’s even more startling? Leclerc had predicted the exact response his team boss would take — and he was right.

The Discovery That Sparked Controversy

The drama unfolded after the 2025 Canadian Grand Prix, a race that saw Hamilton finish ahead of Leclerc in what appeared to be a close and fair battle for third place. However, during the post-race technical debrief, Leclerc reportedly noticed unusual tire degradation patterns and unexpected cornering performance from Hamilton’s Mercedes — elements that didn’t align with the available data.

“I’m not one for conspiracy theories,” Leclerc reportedly told the Ferrari engineers. “But there’s something about the way Lewis’s car behaves in Turns 7 and 10. It doesn’t match any of our simulations or onboard data.”

Leclerc’s attention to detail led Ferrari’s technical team to request closer analysis of Mercedes’ data, especially telemetry from Hamilton’s car.

Ferrari’s Bold Move — Vasseur Steps In

Just hours after the suspicions were raised, Ferrari team boss Frédéric Vasseur formally submitted a request to the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) to initiate a technical review of the Mercedes W15, specifically Hamilton’s car. According to insiders, the request cited “irregularities in aerodynamic flow and ride height compliance during dynamic transitions.”

What stunned fans and insiders alike was that Leclerc predicted this exact step during a closed-door team meeting. “If I’m right,” he told Vasseur, “you’ll send the data to the FIA before the next race in Barcelona. We have to know if this was legal.”

True to Leclerc’s words, Vasseur filed the request, sparking a full-scale investigation.

Mercedes Responds Swiftly

Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team has denied any wrongdoing, calling the allegations “baseless” and claiming full compliance with FIA regulations.

In a statement, team principal Toto Wolff said:

“We welcome any technical inspection by the FIA. Our cars have passed every post-race check and operate within the strict confines of the sport’s regulations. Lewis’s performance is a reflection of his talent and the hard work of our engineering team — not a result of any rule-breaking.”

Hamilton himself responded with grace but a hint of frustration.

“I’ve raced clean my entire career. If someone thinks we’ve found an edge, that’s a compliment to my team. Let the data speak.”

What’s Under Review?

While the FIA has not confirmed details publicly, sources suggest the review is focused on Hamilton’s front suspension system, with concerns about active ride height adjustments — something outlawed in the sport since the early 2000s.

Additionally, floor flexing and innovative diffuser configurations have come under the microscope in recent months, especially as teams seek micro-advantages amid tight regulations. If Mercedes has found a legal loophole, it could revolutionize the season. If not, they could face significant penalties.

Leclerc: “It’s About Fairness, Not Rivalry”

In a brief interview with Sky Sports following the news, Leclerc made it clear that this wasn’t about personal rivalry.

“I have enormous respect for Lewis. But my job is to push for fairness and performance. If something feels off on track, I owe it to the team — and the sport — to question it.”

Leclerc’s mature and measured stance has earned him praise from fans and pundits alike, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most intelligent drivers on the grid.

What Happens Next?

The FIA has confirmed that they are “reviewing Ferrari’s request” and will announce findings ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona. If any wrongdoing is discovered, penalties could range from technical directives (requiring Mercedes to alter their setup) to points deductions or even disqualification from previous results — though the latter is considered unlikely unless major violations are proven.

Fans React

F1 fans have taken to social media in droves, with the sport once again divided.

• Team Hamilton supporters believe this is a case of sore losing, with one user tweeting, “Leclerc’s just mad he got outdriven. Again.”

• Meanwhile, Ferrari loyalists are backing Leclerc, calling him “the detective of the paddock” and praising his sharp instincts.

Conclusion: F1’s Most Intelligent Mind vs. Its Greatest Champion?

Whether or not Mercedes is found guilty of any rule breaches, one thing is clear: Charles Leclerc is not just a skilled driver — he’s a keen observer and strategist, capable of influencing the sport at the highest levels.

As the F1 world waits for the FIA’s findings, one thing is for certain: the tension between Ferrari and Mercedes has just entered a new era — and the 2025 season just got a lot more interesting.