Charles Leclerc has committed his future to Scuderia Ferrari by signing a fresh contract extension that will take him beyond 2024.
However, there was no official confirmation of the lenght of his extension, although it is rumoured to go until the end of 2029.
Speaking about Leclerc’s extended commitment, Team Principal Frederic Vasseur emphasized the deep connection between the driver and the team:
“Charles’ bond to the Scuderia goes beyond that of just a driver and a team,” he said, highlighting their long history, dating back to his pre-Prancing Horse days.“He has been part of the Ferrari family for eight years now, a time predating his first donning of the Prancing Horse emblem on his race suit.”
The Frenchman underlined the shared values between the Scuderia and the Monegasque made it a “natural” decision to make an extension: “His values and those of our team are intertwined and so it was natural for us to be in agreement on extending our collaboration.”
Vasseur further lauded Leclerc’s racing prowess, saying that the Monegasque has an “extraordinary” ability in wheel-to-wheel combat. He also mentioned how the Scuderia is “determined” to give him a winning car during this period together.
“We know him for his incessant desire to push himself to the limit.
“We appreciate his extraordinary abilities when it comes to fighting and overtaking in a race.
“We are determined to give Charles a winning car,” recognizing Leclerc’s commitment as a key element in achieving the team’s goals.”
On his part, Leclerc shared his joy at continuing his journey with Scuderia Ferrari for “several more seasons”, given the unknown – to the public – lenght of his new deal:
“I’m very pleased to know that I will be wearing the Scuderia Ferrari race suit for several more seasons to come.
“To race for this team has been my dream since I was three years old.
“I used to watch the Monaco Grand Prix from the window of a friend’s apartment at Ste. Devote corner and I would always look out for the red cars.”
Leclerc emphasized the familiar bond with Ferrari, remembering how they’ve encountered many difficulties along the way – notably their rough spell of form in 2020 and 2021, two winless seasons for the team – but emphasized the best is “yet to come” from both parties:
“This team is my second family ever since I joined the Ferrari Driver Academy in 2016.”
“We have achieved a lot together, fighting through thick and thin over the past five years.”
“However, I believe the best is yet to come.”
The 26-year-old is with his eyes firmly set on the ultimate goal of becoming a World Champion with Ferrari, and said that “great times” are ahead for him and the team in that regard.
“My dream remains that of winning the World Championship with Ferrari. I’m sure that in the years ahead, we will enjoy great times together and make our fans happy.”
