Ferrari looks all-set to announce Charles Leclerc’s contract extension amidst uncertainty over Carlos Sainz’ new deal
Both the drivers Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz's contract with Ferrari would end by 2024.
Carlos Sainz, Fred Vasseur and Charles Leclerc (Via IMAGO)
Ferrari suffered from a mediocre season full of learnings and regret in 2023. Despite a P3 finish from the team in constructors, the team put forth some huge instability issues during the race. Despite these challenges, the team aims to lock the drivers Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc beyond their current contract expiration date.
It was recently revealed that Leclerc aims at a contract with Ferrari till 2029. John Elkann also expressed optimism over extending the contracts for the two drivers beyond 2024 (current contract expiration date). Fredric Vasseur also offered Leclerc and Sainz with a proposal for stability within the Maranello outfit of Ferrari.
Currently, there is a three year contract for Charles Leclerc. In the contract, he would subsequently receive an offer to continue for two additional years as the regulations would change after 2026. In addition to this, the contract would not include an exit clause or specific conditions for Leclerc. The subsequent two-year option will only be taken if the agreement satisfies both parties.
However, the Spaniard Carlos Sainz would only be offered a two-year deal initially. After a successful season in 2023, the team would love to have the Spaniard around. Although the exact details of the contract have not yet been revealed, Sainz will most likely continue with Ferrari after regulation changes in 2026. Despite the surety, Sainz has also grabbed the attention of other teams on the grid for potential seat beyond 2026.
Former Ferrari leader Cesare Fiorio also showcased surety over contract extension for Leclerc
In addition to the President John Elkann and Fredric Vasseur, Cesare Fiorio also talked about the contract extension for Leclerc. Fiorio revealed that the move to lock his contract till 2029 was a great move for the Monegasque as he had proved his mettle in the season previously. However, Fiorio also talked about a few negative points.
The former boss did not fail to acknowledge the fact that Leclerc was committing way too many mistakes recently. Although he had the potential to match the greats like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton, he still was not on their level as those drivers were just too quick. However, Fiorio also accepted that Leclerc was much more superior in Qualifying sessions as compared to others on the grid.
Both the drivers in Ferrari have proved their racing skills in the season. All Ferrari needs to do now is get their head in the game, minimize errors in strategy and ensure a smooth flow of pitstops. The team can score a victory in the next season and a much more comfortable finish in the constructor’s as proved by their performance this season.
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Aditya Pandya
(1439 Articles Published)