Leclerc Extends Ferrari Deal; Hamilton Skips Monaco GP FIA Press Conference

Charles Leclerc has committed his long-term future to Ferrari, signing a multi-season contract extension that keeps the Monegasque in red for the coming seasons. Meanwhile, Lewis Hamilton will miss the official FIA press conference at the Monaco Grand Prix, instead fulfilling other media commitments in the paddock.

Why it matters:

Leclerc's renewal solidifies Ferrari's driver lineup as the team aims to build a championship contender around him. With Hamilton absent from the FIA list, it underscores the evolving media dynamics and driver rotation at high-profile races like Monaco.

The details:

• Leclerc's contract extension marks the latest chapter in a decade-long relationship, having joined the Ferrari Driver Academy in 2016 and graduating to the F1 team in 2019. The 28-year-old, an eight-time Grand Prix winner, has become synonymous with Ferrari, delivering wins, poles, and podiums.
• The FIA released the Monaco Grand Prix press conference schedule:
  • First group at 14:30 local time: Gabriel Bortoleto, Lando Norris, and Charles Leclerc.
  • Second group at 15:00 local time: Esteban Ocon, Alex Albon, and Max Verstappen.
• Hamilton will not participate in the general press session but will do other media work in the paddock, alongside several other drivers absent from the line-up.
• Team principals' press conference on Friday at 15:30 local time includes Flavio Briatore (Alpine), Pedro de la Rosa (Aston Martin), and Dan Towriss (Cadillac).

What's next:

The Monaco Grand Prix weekend begins Thursday with media day. Leclerc, as hometown hero, will be a central figure, while Verstappen and Norris also headline. Hamilton's absence may be notable but reflects routine scheduling variations across the grid.