Recently, Guiliano Duchessa suggested that Ferrari has begun talks with Charles Leclerc over his contract extension. While Leclerc has repeatedly expressed his desire to remain in red, the driver has become frustrated with the team’s lack of ambition.
However, in an interview with Monaco Matin, he revealed that formal talks between the two parties have not yet begun. This further adds to the speculation that the Monegasque sees his future elsewhere.
The driver’s $24 Million a season contract with Scuderia expires at the end of the 2024 season. Ferrari wants to hold on to their prodigal son. But if Leclerc sees no signs of winning silverware soon, he might consider an exit.
Will Charles Leclerc leave Ferrari?
Charles Leclerc has a lot of love for Ferrari and is seen by the Tifosi as the rightful driver to deliver their next title. The driver has the same goal, to win the championship with Ferrari, which the team has failed at in the last two seasons.
The Monegasque has given Ferrari an ultimatum before signing his extension. However, Leclerc revealed that contract negotiations have not begun yet. He said, “No negotiations have been started. So ask Fred when he plans to start discussions!”
F1 2023: Leclerc 🆚 Sainz
Which of the Ferrari pair will come out on top in Monte Carlo? 👀#F1 #MonacoGP pic.twitter.com/MHBlJzEPl1
— Autosport (@autosport) May 20, 2023
The 5-time GP winner remains focused on improving his results on the track. He added, “I’m fully focused on the track. I love Ferrari. But I’m not happy with the current situation. Ferrari must be at the top. I hope we will get there together.”
Ferrari is expected to hold talks with Leclerc over the summer break. However, delays in negotiations might further frustrate the driver and lower his confidence in the team, especially with Mercedes eyeing to sign him.
Will Lewis Hamilton’s arrival at Ferrari make Leclerc stay?
Earlier, Charles Leclerc was linked with the Mercedes seat if Ferrari opt to sign Lewis Hamilton. The Silver Arrows team boss Toto Wolff denied the reports but claimed that Leclerc remains a long-term target for Mercedes.
Maranello is reportedly offering the 7x world champion a $50 Million contract, in a bid to win their first title in over 15 years. Ferrari Chairman John Elkann desires to assemble a dream team of Hamilton and Leclerc.
The chance to work with F1’s most successful driver might tempt the Monegasque to stay at Maranello. However, the driver commented, “The rumour exists, okay. But it doesn’t bother me.”
If Hamilton joins Ferrari, then he could be promoted as the lead driver, which the Monegasque will not like. There could also be an issue within the dynamics of the duo, pushing Leclerc further away from the team.
