Charles Leclerc plans Antarctic expedition to recharge before 2026 F1 season

Charles Leclerc is planning an unconventional off-season trip to Antarctica to reset and prepare for the 2026 Formula 1 season, following a challenging 2025 campaign with Ferrari. The Monegasque driver aims to combine physical training with a unique educational experience before returning to Maranello for intensive simulator work.

Why it matters:

After a difficult season where Ferrari failed to win a race and finished fourth in the constructors' championship, Leclerc's approach highlights the mental and physical demands of modern F1. His choice of destination—one of the most remote and challenging environments on Earth—underscores the extreme lengths drivers go to find balance and perspective away from the relentless pressure of the championship.

The details:

• Leclerc revealed his Antarctic plans in a video for UniCredit, describing it as "a very, very special trip" intended to recharge his batteries.
• The expedition will not be purely for relaxation; he plans to undertake significant physical training while also learning about the unique environment.
• Upon returning, his focus will shift entirely to the 2026 car, with extensive simulator sessions and preparation work at Ferrari's Maranello factory.
• Leclerc also expressed confidence in teammate Lewis Hamilton's ability to bounce back from a tough debut season with the team, acknowledging that the car became increasingly difficult to drive for everyone as 2025 progressed.

The big picture:

Leclerc's Antarctic venture is more than a holiday; it's a strategic reset. The 2025 season represented a significant setback for Ferrari, marking a year without a victory and raising questions about their direction. For a driver of Leclerc's caliber, who has spent his entire F1 career with the Scuderia, finding new motivation and a fresh perspective is crucial. His confidence in Hamilton's resurgence suggests a unified team approach heading into 2026, a critical year as teams begin to pivot resources toward the major 2026 regulation changes.

What's next:

The immediate focus for Leclerc is the Antarctic expedition and subsequent physical and technical preparation during the winter break. All eyes will be on Ferrari's launch and pre-season testing to see if the team can address the fundamental issues that plagued their 2025 car. With both Leclerc seeking a fresh start and Hamilton aiming for a stronger second season, the internal dynamic and performance of the 2026 Ferrari will be one of the early stories of the new year.