Charles Leclerc has dedicated years to Scuderia Ferrari, but that dedication has so far failed to pay off in the form of a World Championship. Yet, it's the hope of that championship, combined with a significant fear, that keeps him with the team.
Why it matters
Ferrari mechatronics engineer Francesco Cigarini believes Leclerc fears a change of team would come at the exact moment the Prancing Horse becomes a formidable contender. This internal conflict highlights the complex balance between driver loyalty, personal ambition, and the unpredictable nature of Formula 1 success.
The big picture
Leclerc signed with the Ferrari Driver Academy in 2016 and joined the F1 team in 2019. Since then, he has secured eight Formula 1 victories and a best championship finish of second in 2022. Cigarini, who knew Leclerc from a young age, described him as a "huge talent," comparing him to the late Jules Bianchi and seeing in him the renewed hope for the team.
- Leclerc's internal debate: Cigarini explained that Leclerc likely asks himself, "What if I change teams and in a year or two Ferrari puts the car I need to win the World Championship on the track?"
- Value of a Ferrari title: Winning a title with Ferrari holds unique prestige, and Leclerc's ambition to bring that title to Maranello is a powerful motivator. Cigarini doesn't believe Leclerc's strong connection with the team has faded.
- Commitment extended: Leclerc reaffirmed his commitment by extending his Ferrari partnership in 2024 for "several seasons to come."
What's next
The F1 2026 season will introduce a complete regulatory transformation, which is expected to cause a major upheaval in the pecking order. Leclerc will undoubtedly be hoping this shift provides him and Ferrari with a better opportunity to finally secure the coveted World Championship title.