The Monegasque racer has disclosed his reasons for signing a long-term agreement with Ferrari. Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc (Via IMAGO) Ferrari made some notable changes during the pre-season of 2024 after a disappointing 2023 season, where they only managed to secure one victory and a third place in the constructors’ championship. Despite being a contender for the title in 2023, the team aims to re-enter the World Drivers’ Championship discussions with their revamped SF24 for the 2024 season.
In the midst of the “silly season,” Ferrari made two major moves by extending Leclerc’s contract for multiple years and securing Mercedes’ world champion driver for the 2025 season and beyond in a groundbreaking deal. Leclerc recently revealed the crucial factor that led him to sign the contract with Ferrari, despite being aware of the project’s details.
During the 2023 season, Leclerc’s confidence was affected by Ferrari’s inconsistent car, which was also influenced by wind conditions. However, the modified floor of the SF-23 widened the car’s operating window, giving Leclerc greater control. The Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort in August marked a turning point for Ferrari, as the team effectively addressed the issues they faced. This moment played a significant role in restoring Leclerc’s faith in the team.
Find out more: Max Verstappen pays no attention to rumors of Red Bull imitating Mercedes, expressing satisfaction with the team’s new direction. Charles Leclerc, who was in negotiations for a new Ferrari contract, made the decision to remain with the Italian manufacturer, despite knowing that Lewis Hamilton would join in 2025. Leclerc finalized his multi-year agreement with Ferrari shortly before Hamilton’s announcement.
Leclerc and his current teammate were informed about the team’s discussions with Hamilton. However, Leclerc chose not to pursue offers from Mercedes or Red Bull for the 2025 season, as he wanted to compete on equal footing with Hamilton. Leclerc believes that outperforming the British driver next year as a Ferrari racer would elevate his status and establish him as the team leader. He also believes that Hamilton’s extensive experience can contribute to the development of the 2025 Ferrari.
Ferrari is making substantial investments in order to win the Formula One championship, and Hamilton’s arrival may incentivize other teams to recruit top-tier engineers. Leclerc has included a contingency plan in his new Ferrari contract, which allows him to explore other options if the team fails to produce a winning car after the 2026 season.
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According to the Source firstsportz.com