Ferrari's Driver Salaries Top €100 Million; Leclerc Explains New Deal, Verstappen Backs FIA

Ferrari has become the first Formula 1 team to cross the €100 million mark in combined driver salaries, following Charles Leclerc’s new contract extension. Speaking on media day ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix, the home hero explained his decision to stay with the Scuderia. Elsewhere, Max Verstappen threw his weight behind the FIA’s ability to shape the right 2027 regulations, while Lewis Hamilton downplayed Ferrari’s status as weekend favorites.

Why it matters:

This salary milestone underscores the escalating financial stakes at the front of the grid. Leclerc’s long-term commitment gives Ferrari stability as it pushes for a title, while Verstappen’s endorsement of the FIA hints at broader driver alignment on future rules.

The details:

• Salary record: Leclerc’s new deal pushes Ferrari’s total driver payroll beyond €100 million, the highest ever in F1 history.
• Leclerc’s motivation: The Monegasque cited the team’s long-term vision and ambition as key factors in signing the extension, expressing confidence in the project led by Fred Vasseur.
• Verstappen on FIA: The world champion stated he trusts the governing body to make the right calls for 2027, signaling support amid ongoing debates about engine and chassis regulations.
• Hamilton’s caution: Despite Ferrari’s strong recent pace, Hamilton played down expectations, noting Monaco’s unique challenges and the need to execute flawlessly.

What’s next:

All attention now turns to the track as Monaco’s streets host Round 7. Leclerc will chase his first home win, while Verstappen looks to extend his championship lead. The off-track stories add another layer to what promises to be a gripping weekend.