Leclerc commits future to Ferrari in long-term deal ahead of Monaco Grand Prix

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc has agreed to a new long-term contract with the team, securing his future with the Italian outfit ahead of this weekend’s Monaco Grand Prix. The 28-year-old Monegasque, who currently sits third in the drivers' championship, has established himself as a central figure in the team’s recent history since joining in 2019.

Leclerc has competed in 155 races for Ferrari, securing eight victories along the way. He is now the team’s second-most capped Formula One driver and ranks second in the record books for pole positions, trailing only Michael Schumacher. His career path to the Maranello-based squad began when he joined the Ferrari Driver Academy in 2016, followed by a Formula 2 title win in 2017 and a Formula One debut with Sauber in 2018.

In a statement regarding the agreement, Leclerc described the team as a "second family" and the organisation he had "loved and dreamt of being part of since I was a child." He emphasised that being a Ferrari driver carries a significant responsibility, one he does not take for granted, and expressed his commitment to giving "absolutely everything" to return the team to the top of the sport.

Leclerc stated he is "deeply grateful" to continue his journey with Scuderia Ferrari HP. He highlighted the shared history of both "incredible moments and some tougher ones," asserting his belief in the team’s ability to achieve their objectives. His primary stated aim with the new deal is to bring the World Championship back to Maranello, driven by the passion of the tifosi.

The announcement comes at a pivotal time for the constructor, with Leclerc reaffirming his dedication to the squad as they seek to challenge for the highest honours in Formula One. The specific duration and financial terms of the long-term agreement have not been disclosed in the source material.