F1 2026: Charles Leclerc extends stay at Ferrari, signs multi-year extension

Ferrari have secured Charles Leclerc’s long-term future by extending the Monaco driver’s stay with the team through a new multi-year deal, ensuring he remains part of the Scuderia’s plans for the next few seasons.

Leclerc’s journey with Ferrari began after an impressive rookie campaign with Sauber in 2018, which followed his Formula 2 championship triumph the year before. He was promoted to Ferrari for the 2019 season and has since established himself as one of the team’s standout drivers.

During his time in red, Leclerc provided Ferrari fans with some memorable moments, including wins at Monza in 2019 and 2024, as well as a landmark victory on the streets of Monaco in 2024. He also climbed to second place on Ferrari’s all-time list for race starts, behind only the legendary seven-time world champion Michael Schumacher

“I couldn’t be happier to continue this journey with Scuderia Ferrari HP,” said Leclerc. “It’s always been so much more than just a team for me.

“It’s a team I’ve loved and dreamed of being a part of since I was a kid, and after all these years it’s become a second family.

“Together we have shared incredible moments and some tough ones, but I believe in this team more than ever and I am deeply grateful that we will continue to push side by side towards our common goal of bringing the World Championship back to Maranello.”

“Being a Ferrari driver is a dream, but it is also a responsibility that I never take for granted. I will continue to give absolutely everything I have to bring this team back to where it belongs, at the very top, for everyone in Maranello and above all for the tifosi whose passion is at the heart of this Scuderia.”

The contract extension further strengthens a partnership that has spanned almost a decade. Leclerc first linked up with Ferrari through its driving academy in 2016 and has remained committed to the team’s long-term vision. The new deal also underlines his belief that Ferrari can return to the top of Formula 1 and challenge for the world title in the coming years.

News of the extension comes just ahead of Leclerc’s home Grand Prix in Monaco, where Ferrari is expected to be among the frontrunners despite Mercedes dominating the opening races of the season.

Ferrari have traditionally been competitive in the tight streets of Monte Carlo, with the circuit’s slow corners and rough surfaces often matching their car’s characteristics. The unique nature of the track, which places less emphasis on outright engine power, could also help reduce Mercedes’ advantage and offer Ferrari a stronger chance of challenging for victory.

– The end

Published on:

03 Jun 2026 14:05 IST