Charles Leclerc revealed that he had received interest from other Formula 1 teams before signing his new agreement with Ferrari, which was announced on Wednesday (03). Despite admitting that there were alternatives for the future of his career, the Monegasque assured that his priority had always been to remain with the Italian team.
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The renewal was announced before the Monaco GP and reinforced the bond between the driver and the Scuderia. Although the full details of the contract have not been disclosed, Leclerc already had a commitment with the team valid, at least, until the end of 2028.
The topic resurfaced during interviews given in Monte Carlo, when the eight-time GP winner was asked about the existence of other possibilities before signing the new contract. Without mincing words, the Monegasque confirmed that there was interest from other teams.
“Yes, there was,” Leclerc replied when asked if he had alternatives other than Ferrari. The driver, who has been with the Maranello team since 2019, once again highlighted the connection built over the years with the team that bet on him early in his career in the category.
Even in the face of the difficulties faced by Ferrari in its quest to win titles again, the Monegasque showed no doubts about the decision made. According to him, the feeling for the team and the trust received were decisive factors in continuing to wear the red suit.
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Leclerc reinforced that he never seriously considered a different path: “For me, Ferrari was always the choice,” he stated. The driver made it clear that, regardless of the conversations that may have happened behind the scenes, his intention was always to continue the project started several years ago.
Asked which teams would have tried to sign him, the driver preferred not to reveal details: “No, I won’t say who. They can say if they want, but for me, Ferrari was always the choice,” he concluded.
The Monegasque’s statement reinforces his commitment to the team led by Fred Vasseur. While acknowledging that other opportunities existed, Leclerc emphasized that his decision was guided by the relationship built with Ferrari, the team in which he continues to bet his future in Formula 1.
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