The Monegasque driver announced a new long-term deal with the Scuderia just a week before the bombshell news earlier this month that Hamilton would be joining him next year.
The timing of the Hamilton move prompted some to suggest that Leclerc may have been caught blindsided by the fact that he would now find himself going up against the seven-time world champion.
But speaking for the first time about the situation, Leclerc said Ferrari had kept him in the loop about plans – and that he saw no downside to the development.
“Obviously these kind of deals are not finalised overnight,” he said about the timing of both his and Hamilton’s contract deals.
“So, it takes time, of course. I was aware of those discussions before signing my deal. So, it didn't come out as a surprise after signing.”
He added: “Lewis is an incredible driver, the most successful in history and with lots of experience as well, which he will bring to the team and obviously myself, which is a good thing.
“But, with Carlos [Sainz], it has been great and we've got one more year together to try and do the best job possible.”
Source: Autosport