News summary

Charles Leclerc pointed to Frédéric Vasseur as one of the main reasons for renewing his contract with Ferrari through 2031, extending his commitment to the Italian team. The Monegasque said he had no doubts about his decision to remain at Maranello and summed up his relationship with the team: “This is where I belong.”

Speaking on F1’s official podcast, Beyond The Grid, Leclerc explained his motivation for continuing with Ferrari and reiterated his goal of winning the World Championship with the team. The driver also identified Fred Vasseur as one of the key factors behind his contract extension and made clear how much confidence he has in the work being done by the team principal.

“Sometimes, it doesn’t need much more explanation because this is where I belong, for now. It is here at Ferrari that I am most motivated to perform well, simply because I love this team so much. It has been many years since I joined the Formula 1 team, in 2019, but I have been part of the Ferrari family for even longer. I don’t want to give up on my ultimate goal, which is to become World Champion with Ferrari,” Leclerc began.

Leclerc also emphasized that he sees positive signs in Ferrari’s project, particularly in the pace of development and the team’s approach to producing and upgrading the car. For the Monegasque, these factors provide hope that Ferrari can take an important step forward over the coming years.

“I believe in the project, I believe in every person in the team. I think we are in a year where we have shown innovation. We are also being very aggressive in terms of production and the upgrades we are bringing. That gives me a lot of hope for the future. Fred is one of the main reasons why I signed a new contract. I believe in him 200%. We have known each other for many years, and being able to work with him in the team I have always loved is a privilege,” he said.

Frédéric Vasseur was highly praised by Charles Leclerc (Photo: Rodrigo Ruiz/Grande Prêmio)

The relationship with Vasseur therefore emerges as one of the pillars behind Leclerc’s decision to stay at Ferrari. The driver said his trust in the Frenchman goes beyond the professional relationship they have built within Ferrari and highlighted the connection between the two since their earliest years working together.

“I had no doubts that this was the right decision. It feels like I’ve known Fred forever. He is the kind of person you speak to once and there is something that has naturally worked from the beginning, which is difficult to explain. So, obviously, the bond is stronger than just a working or business relationship,” Leclerc concluded.

Leclerc’s commitment comes as Ferrari continues to develop its 2026 package and prepare for the Italian GP at Monza. The team will also run a special SF-26 livery honoring Michael Schumacher, with Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton set to race the commemorative design.

The Formula 1 season returns this weekend, from September 4 to 6, at Monza. Check the Italian GP 2026 schedule and full session times for all the details. GRANDE PRÊMIO will cover all the action from the Italian GP, the 13th round of the 2026 season.

FAQ

1. When did Charles Leclerc renew his Ferrari contract?

Leclerc extended his Ferrari commitment through 2031, keeping him with the team for the long term.

2. Why did Leclerc say Frédéric Vasseur was important to his renewal?

Leclerc described Vasseur as one of the main reasons he signed the new contract, citing the strong relationship and the trust he has developed in the Ferrari team principal over the years.

3. What is Leclerc’s main goal with Ferrari?

Leclerc reiterated that his ultimate goal is to become Formula 1 World Champion with Ferrari, the team he has represented since 2019.