Charles Leclerc has shared his rationale for committing to Ferrari for an extended period, following his recent contract extension.
Ferrari has found itself at the forefront of this year’s early ‘silly season’, with the Italian team already securing their line-up until at least 2025 and 2026.
In January, it was revealed that Charles Leclerc had inked a multi-year contract extension, although Ferrari has yet to disclose the precise duration of the agreement.
According to reports from the Italian press, Leclerc’s fresh contract spans until the conclusion of 2029.
READ: Carlos Sainz finally breaks his silence on Ferrari picking Lewis Hamilton
However, in a surprising turn of events announced at the start of February, Carlos Sainz will be succeeded next year by Lewis Hamilton.
The seven-time World Champion is departing Mercedes at the end of the 2024 season, embarking on an extraordinary move to Maranello.
The pairing of Hamilton and Leclerc is an exceptional driver duo and symbolises the team’s aspirations to break their championship drought.
Ferrari’s last Constructors’ Championship victory dates back to 2008, while Kimi Raikkonen’s 2007 title stands as the most recent triumph for a Ferrari driver.
Ending Ferrari’s championship quest is Leclerc’s career aspiration and partly underpins his decision to agree to such a lengthy extension.
The 26-year-old has had close ties with Ferrari for several years, having joined their driver academy in 2016.
The strong bond between Ferrari and Leclerc is evident, with the reported duration of his contract serving as evidence.
However, Leclerc’s journey with Ferrari over the past six years hasn’t been without challenges, particularly in the last two seasons.
Although vocal on the radio and occasionally discontented with strategic decisions, his affection for the marque remains steadfast.
Leclerc not only believes in Ferrari’s vision but also in their pursuit of fielding the fastest car.
“Well, of course, it’s part of my decision,” Leclerc expressed to select media, including RacingNews365.
“I think not only because it feels like a family, but most of all, because they were the first people to believe in me straight from even before I got to Formula 1.
“They gave me the opportunity to get into Formula 1, they gave me the opportunity of being a Ferrari driver, and getting a car that was good enough to secure my first pole position and my first win.
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“But more than anything, I think what made me sign for a longer contract is because I believe in the project. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have done that.
“So I believe in the project fully. I love Ferrari, that’s for sure, and I think that’s clear to everybody.
“But most of all, I believe in the project, and I believe we have the best chance in order to become the best car on the grid in the next years. So this is why I renewed with Ferrari.”