Charles Leclerc’s time at Ferrari is somehow under the motto: And every year the marmot greets you. Season after season, the Monegasque starts with great ambitions and hopes – only to be far away from his dream of being Formula 1 world champion with the Scuderia at the end of the year. Leclerc is making an announcement for 2026.
The 2025 season was not Charles Leclerc’s year. The Ferrari star only ended up in fourth place in the World Cup table – behind and far away from the World Cup music. It wasn’t even enough to win the season.
This was less due to Monegasse, who once again delivered rock-solid performances. The SF-25 from Maranello was simply not competitive, fourth place in the constructors’ championship behind the Red Bull team, which was basically only supplied with points by Max Verstappen, speaks volumes.
“It’s tough, but at the same time I think the whole team is highly motivated for next year,” said Leclerc after the season finale in Abu Dhabi.
Video: Hamilton at Ferrari: A nightmare in red
Formula 1: Ferrari hopes for rule changes
Everything should get better in 2026 – it will definitely be different.
In Formula 1, completely new engine regulations apply, which also have a massive impact on aerodynamics. Half of the engine power will be electric.
According to rumors from the paddock, Ferrari is definitely on the ball when it comes to engine development and is the second force behind Mercedes. In any case, Leclerc is increasing the pressure.
“It’s such a big opportunity, a huge opportunity to show what Ferrari is capable of and it’s now or never,” the 28-year-old made clear. “I really hope we start this era on the right foot because it’s important for the next four years.”
Leclerc has been driving for Ferrari since 2019 and is nicknamed “Il predestinato” (the chosen one) in Italy. However, he has not yet achieved the hoped-for first World Cup title since Kimi Räikkönen in 2007.
His contract with the Reds runs until 2029. If Ferrari doesn’t get going and the dream of the title remains just an illusion in the future, Leclerc could look around.