Charles Leclerc claims he won’t ‘stay’ in F1 at 43 amidst Fernando Alonso’s contract extension

Charles Leclerc has been competing in F1 since 2018.

Charles Leclerc claims he won’t ‘stay’ in F1 at 43 amidst Fernando Alonso’s contract extension

Charles Leclerc and Fernando Alonso (Via: Imago)

Fernando Alonso recently announced that he has signed a multi-year contract with Aston Martin that will keep him with the team at least till 2026. The Spaniard will be 44 years old then. Following the contract announcement, Ferrari driver, Charles Leclerc has taken the time to share his views on it.

Leclerc added how he believes Fernando Alonso is one of the most talented drivers of all time. But he also spoke about himself and added how he would not be in F1 by the time he is 43 as he wants to try out other racing categories.

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Fernando Alonso has signed a contract with Aston Martin until 2026.

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Fernando is one of the most talented drivers on the grid, he deserves his place in F1, there are also many young people who deserve their place, but it is not easy to find balance. Until 43 years old, I will most likely not be in F1 even if I really like it, I want to try other categories that are definitely racing at Le Mans.

Charles Leclerc during an interview with Sky Sports F1

The Monagasque seems to admire the 42-year-old’s grit to stay competitive in the sport. He concluded by speaking about how F1 needs to find a balance between keeping old drivers and promoting new drivers to keep the sport alive and fresh.

Charles Leclerc shares insight into simulator work ahead of Chinese GP

Ever since joining Ferrari in 2019, Charles Leclerc has been one of the best qualifiers in F1. The Monagasque has 23 poles for Ferrari but seems to be struggling with it this season, especially with his disappointing qualifying performances in Australia and Japan where he was beaten by teammate, Carlos Sainz.

Charles Leclerc.
Charles Leclerc (via IMAGO)

During the same interview with Sky Sports F1, Leclerc admitted that the Spaniard seems to be more comfortable in qualifying trim in the SF24. But, looking forward to China, Leclerc has made it known that he has been in the simulator for three days to improve his tire warming-up skills, to get the tires into the right window on his out-lap.

I’ve been working three days in the simulator to work on how to turn on the tyre,in China there will be two Qualifications and two races with the opportunity to win many points and I will have to be ready.

Charles Leclerc during the same interview

The number 16 is one of the best drivers in qualifying on the grid and surely will be ready to bounce back at the Chinese GP. Only time will tell how he fares in qualifying and the race in comparison to his in-form Carlos Sainz. As things stand, Leclerc is the lead Ferrari driver in the driver’s championship with 59 points.

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