Charles Leclerc is one of the most talented drivers on the current F1 grid that most teams are likely to have their eye on. Amid rumors that Ferrari may consider signing Lewis Hamilton, speculations have arisen that the Monegasque could indeed then pursue a move to rivals Mercedes.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff too has suggested that his side may consider signing Leclerc in the future if an opportunity arises. As quoted by Sky Sports F1, the Austrian team principal said earlier this year, “Charles is a super guy and for the long-term future someone you have to have on your radar but not for the short and medium-term“.
While there has been no indication yet of what may happen in the driver market, former F1 driver Marc Surer has given Leclerc clear advice on how he can advance his career. The 71-year-old believes that if Mercedes does approach him, then the Monegasque has to say yes despite him repeatedly having spoken about his dream to win the world championship with Ferrari.
“It’s a bit muddled with Ferrari‘: Surer issues Leclerc an important advice
While speaking on the Formel1.de YouTube channel (as quoted by motorsport-total.com) about Charles Leclerc’s future prospects at Ferrari, Marc Surer said, “It’s a bit muddled with Ferrari at the moment . There’s no bright spot either. If he (Leclerc) gets a chance, he should switch teams. That would certainly do him good“.
While speculations about Leclerc’s future are rife because of Ferrari’s inability to deliver him a car that is capable of fighting for the world championship, the 25-year-old has repeatedly stated that he does not see himself having a future anywhere else.
In fact, Leclerc may indeed be the most loyal F1 driver as several racers of his talent have often jumped ship in pursuit of success, but he seems to have repeatedly reaffirmed his commitment to staying at Ferrari. While speaking in an interview ahead of the Azerbaijan GP earlier this year, Leclerc directly answered the speculations of him potentially considering a move to Mercedes.
As quoted by scuderiafans.com, the Monegasque once again said that his “main priority” is to win the world championship with Ferrari. And hence, a potential move to the Silver Arrows has never crossed his mind.
Will an opportunity arise for Charles Leclerc to move to Mercedes?
Since George Russell seems to have a long-term deal at Mercedes, an opportunity for Charles Leclerc to move to the Silver Arrows is only likely to arise if Lewis Hamilton leaves the team. Hamilton, who has been with Mercedes since the 2013 season, is still to sign a contract extension with the team.
When asked about his future, Hamilton made it clear that his team is close to signing a contract extension. While speaking to Sky Sports F1 ahead of the Monaco GP last week, the Briton said that his team is “almost at the end of having a contract ready” after positive discussions with Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff.
Wolff too has made similar remarks when asked about which drivers are Mercedes likely to have for the 2024 season. When asked about the same (as quoted by f1.com), Wolff said, “We are 100% committed to putting pen to paper with Lewis“.
