Charles Leclerc has entered negotiations with Mercedes

Charles Leclerc is suffering the worst start to a Formula 1 season in his career after experiencing two DNFs in three races.

The challenging outings in Bahrain and Australia have left Leclerc in P10 in the Drivers’ standings, over 60 points behind the title leader Max Verstappen.

Unfortunately for Leclerc, it’s not clear that things will improve anytime soon, even with updates on the way at Ferrari, as the Italian outfit accepts that a lot of work is needed to put them back on par with Red Bull.

Italian media outlets are reporting that Charles Leclerc is in discussion with Mercedes about a possible move to the Silver Arrows, claiming that it is an “open secret” in the paddock.

Lewis Hamilton is in the final year of his contract with Mercedes and there’s no sign that he is going to renew his deal anytime soon.

Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies

The failure of Hamilton to show his commitment to Mercedes, signing on to another season or more with the team has got rumours swirling over whether he’ll remain at the Silver Arrows or even in the sport.

It’s no secret that Hamilton is disappointed with the performance of Mercedes in the new era, as his shot at a record-breaking eighth world title looks increasingly unlikely.

READ: Lewis Hamilton goes undercover

Hamilton recently surpassed his old rival Max Verstappen’s record of the most days since a win in Formula 1, having gone over 503 days without a P1 finish, as of 24th April.

Article continues below

With both drivers believed to be disappointed at their respective teams, a potential driver swap has been floated, as some believe the change could reinvigorate their careers and the Constructors.

Given how discreet teams and drivers are about potentially poaching those currently on the grid, fans will have to wait until a deal is signed to know for certain what the future holds for Leclerc and Hamilton.