Leclerc signs two-year contract extension with Ferrari through 2028

Charles Leclerc has signed a two-year contract extension with Ferrari, keeping him at Maranello through the 2028 Formula 1 season. The new deal replaces his previous contract that was set to expire at the end of this year, securing the Monegasque driver's long-term future with the Scuderia.

Why it matters:

Leclerc's extension cements Ferrari's driver lineup for the next two years amid a competitive 2026 season. Currently third in the standings behind Mercedes pair Kimi Antonelli and George Russell, Leclerc remains the team's cornerstone as they chase a first drivers' championship since 2007 and constructors' title since 2008.

The details:

• Leclerc has been with Ferrari since joining their driver academy in 2016, making him the team's second-most capped driver.
• He ranks second for pole positions at Ferrari behind Michael Schumacher, with 26 poles in red.
• Team Principal Fred Vasseur praised Leclerc's growth: "Over these seasons we have seen him grow to become not only one of the strongest drivers in Formula 1, but also a person completely at one with the team and everything Ferrari represents."
• In his statement, Leclerc said: "I couldn't be happier to continue this journey. It has always been so much more than just a team to me."
• The extension comes just ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix — Leclerc's home race — which kicks off a six-race European swing over the next eight weeks.

What's next:

With his future secured, Leclerc can focus entirely on closing the gap to Mercedes in the championship. The Monaco GP this weekend presents a prime opportunity, especially after his emotional first home win in 2024. Ferrari will also be looking to finalize their second driver slot, with Carlos Sainz's contract also up for renewal later this year.