Barrichello gives advice for Charles Leclerc ahead of Ferrari debut

Rubens Barrichello has told Charles Leclerc to be "good in the head" during his first season at Ferrari. Barrichello, who played second fiddle to Michael Schumacher, offers his advice to the 21-year-old making the step-up from Sauber.

Leclerc had just one season in full-time Formula 1 before being given the big promotion to Ferrari. Barrichello believes Leclerc has all the ability to drive alongside Sebastian Vettel but says he must get strengthen his mental state.

"I'm super excited for him. He's one of those young guys who really made his way through [impressively]. To get into Ferrari [and be successful], the only thing you need is to be really good in your head. Talent, we know he has," Barrichello tells Autosport.

Leclerc comes in to replace Kimi Raikkonen who managed to win a race last season. Pressure on Ferrari drivers is always strong, but will they give Leclerc a lenient six months to settle in? There's not really time for that if they want to beat Mercedes.