Speculation about Charles Leclerc’s future with Ferrari has been intense following the team’s disappointing performance in the 2022 season. Ferrari’s SF-23 package has struggled to match the performance of Red Bull’s RB19, raising questions about Leclerc’s commitment to the team.
Earlier in the season, rumors emerged linking Leclerc to Mercedes, as the German manufacturer had not yet signed Lewis Hamilton for a new contract alongside George Russell. However, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff quickly dismissed these rumors.
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur also downplayed concerns about losing Leclerc after 2024, stating that it wasn’t the right time to discuss a contract extension during the Australian Grand Prix in April.
Despite Vasseur’s remarks, speculation continued to grow after Leclerc faced qualifying difficulties in Spain and Canada. In Montreal, Leclerc openly criticized his team for not changing to slick tires early in the wet Q2 session, which resulted in his elimination. However, Vasseur stated that Leclerc later admitted his mistake after internal discussions.
Leading up to the Austrian Grand Prix, F1Flow.com asked Leclerc about his contract negotiations, with teammate Carlos Sainz expressing his desire to sort out his own future with Ferrari. Leclerc responded, “Slowly. We’re starting slowly to speak about it, yes.”
However, Leclerc clarified that he doesn’t have any specific deadlines for a new deal, as he believes a year and a half is a long time away. He mentioned that discussions were still in the preliminary stages and not formal or specific.
Later on, Leclerc appeared to backtrack on his earlier comments, suggesting that the discussions with Ferrari were more lighthearted and casual. When asked if he would consider other teams in 2025, he emphasized his love for Ferrari and his happiness within the team.
Leclerc admitted that it was the first time in his career that he found himself in such a position, where there is media speculation about potential moves to other teams. He acknowledged the significance of his contract situation and expressed his focus on driving and aiming to win races for Ferrari.
Leclerc’s priority remains with Ferrari, despite acknowledging the possibility of exploring other options in the future. He appreciates the team’s support throughout his career and believes they are working towards improvement. Leclerc is optimistic about the future and determined to achieve success with Ferrari.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about F1 contract talks
What is the current status of contract talks between Leclerc and Ferrari?
Leclerc and Ferrari have started discussing a new contract, albeit slowly. They have initiated preliminary discussions but have not set any specific deadlines or reached any formal agreements.
Has Leclerc expressed interest in joining Mercedes?
Leclerc was linked to Mercedes earlier in the season, but those rumors were quickly dismissed by Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff. Leclerc has stated that he loves Ferrari and is happy with the team.
How does Leclerc feel about the current performance of Ferrari?
Leclerc and Ferrari are not satisfied with their current performance. They acknowledge that they are not where they want to be but believe they are working in the right direction to improve.
Is Leclerc considering other teams for the 2025 season?
Leclerc has emphasized his love for Ferrari and his happiness within the team. While he acknowledges the speculation about potential moves to other teams, he has not expressed a desire to explore other options and remains focused on driving for Ferrari.
How does Leclerc view his contract situation compared to previous moves in his career?
Leclerc recognizes that his current contract situation is different from previous moves he has made in his career. He appreciates the significance of this contract and the discussions surrounding it but is primarily focused on driving and achieving success with Ferrari.
More about F1 contract talks
- Leclerc slowly begins talks over new Ferrari deal – Motorsport.com article providing details on Leclerc’s slow start to contract talks with Ferrari.
- Leclerc denies Mercedes move and expresses love for Ferrari – Autosport article addressing Leclerc’s denial of interest in joining Mercedes and his affection for Ferrari.
- Leclerc confident Ferrari is heading in the right direction – Formula 1 article discussing Leclerc’s confidence in Ferrari’s improvement despite their current performance.
- Leclerc focused on driving for Ferrari amid contract speculation – Sky Sports article highlighting Leclerc’s commitment to Ferrari and his concentration on his driving responsibilities.
- Leclerc’s different contract situation in his career – Grand Prix article discussing Leclerc’s perspective on his current contract situation compared to previous moves in his career.
