Charles Leclerc signs new long-term Ferrari contract ahead of Monaco Grand Prix

Charles Leclerc signs new long-term Ferrari contract ahead of Monaco Grand Prix
Ferrari's Charles Leclerc arrives ahead of practice, Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, 22 May, 2026
Reuters

Charles Leclerc has signed a new contract to extend his stay with Ferrari, reinforcing his long-term commitment to Formula 1’s most iconic team ahead of his home race in Monaco.  

Ferrari confirmed the extension on the eve of the Monaco Grand Prix, although the exact length of the deal was not disclosed. The team said Leclerc would remain with the Scuderia for the “coming seasons.”

Leclerc, who joined Ferrari’s junior academy in 2016 and stepped up to the Formula 1 team in 2019, said the decision reflected his deep connection to the team.

“It means family and maybe that is exactly what makes this bond so special,” Leclerc said. “For me, it’s always been clear. The dream is still alive. And I’m proud to be chasing it together.”

‘More than just a team’

Leclerc described Ferrari as more than just a racing team, saying it represents a long-standing ambition he has held since childhood.

“I couldn’t be happier to continue this journey with Scuderia Ferrari,” he said. “It has always been so much more than just a team to me. It’s the team I’ve loved and dreamt of being part of since I was a child.”

He added that Ferrari had become “a second family,” highlighting his belief in the project as the team continues its push to return to championship-winning form.

Ferrari’s wait for success

Leclerc has been one of Ferrari’s key drivers over the past seven seasons, recording eight Grand Prix victories, 27 pole positions and 52 podium finishes.

Despite his individual success, Ferrari’s last Drivers’ Championship came in 2007, with the Constructors’ title last secured in 2008. The team has continued to fall short in its bid to return to the top of Formula 1.

Leclerc’s extension comes as Ferrari looks to build stability in its driver line-up, with Lewis Hamilton also contracted until at least the end of 2027.

Strong backing at Maranello

Leclerc is understood to have strong relationships with Ferrari leadership, including team principal Fred Vasseur, with whom he has worked since his junior career.

He also remains a central figure for the team’s fanbase, the Tifosi, and is widely regarded as a long-term leader of Ferrari’s Formula 1 project.

Ferrari will now turn its focus to closing the performance gap to rivals Mercedes and McLaren as it continues its push for a return to championship contention.

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