“Apart from Leclerc, everyone had money in their hands when they entered the Academy” – Former champion Jacques Villeneuve does a critical analysis of the Ferrari Driver Academy

“Apart from Leclerc, everyone had money in their hands when they entered the Academy” – Former F1 champion Jacques Villeneuve is not very impressed with the talent coming out of the Ferrari Driver Academy (FDA).

The Ferrari Driver Academy has produced recent gems in Charles Leclerc, Antonio Giovinazzi, and Mick Schumacher. But 1997 F1 champion Jacques Villeneuve believes most drivers enter the academy due to sources and money power. He added only current Ferrari star Leclerc to the exception list, in the conversation with Sky Italia.

“Apart from Leclerc, everyone had money in their hands when they entered the Academy.”

“He was the only one who did not have his finances in order when he entered the Academy. The others, however, all had a considerable budget and that helps you on your way. Of course, you still have to do it yourself, but even without Ferrari these guys could have walked the career path they are currently taking.”

Mick Schumacher has to live up to the Ferrari name

Villeneuve however added that Mick Schumacher has also done a commendable job considering the weight he’s carrying of the greatest surname in F1 history. The son of Michael is the current F2 champion and will make his F1 debut with Haas next season. Haas is powered by Ferrari engines, and have an agreement in place to allow one FDA driver to race in their team.

“Mick has, of course, been under a lot of pressure in recent years because of his surname. He has certainly felt that pressure and therefore he has been able to learn from it. That’s a big difference compared to the other guys in the Academy.”

Also read: “You shouldn’t compare Mick Schumacher with father Michael”- Max Verstappen on rising fame of rising FDA star