Charles Leclerc’s future at Ferrari has taken another dramatic turn just days after a disappointing season wrapped up. Ferrari endured a frustrating campaign, finishing fourth in the Constructors’ Championship while Leclerc managed only fifth in the Drivers’ Standings. With neither he nor the team securing a race win — aside from Lewis Hamilton’s sprint success in China — the year closed with mounting doubts surrounding Ferrari’s direction.
The team shifted early focus to their 2026 car, hoping next year’s technical overhaul will reset the competitive order. Yet Leclerc has made it clear that next season is pivotal. Despite expressing faith that a world title with Ferrari is still possible, he acknowledged that dramatic improvement is essential. This admission has intensified speculation about his long-term commitment to the Scuderia.
Leclerc has been embedded in Ferrari’s system since joining their Driver Academy in 2016 and has claimed eight victories since becoming a full-time driver in 2019. While his contract reportedly runs through 2029, fresh reporting suggests the Monegasque star may be free to explore his options just six or seven races into 2026 if results do not improve. Aston Martin, Mercedes, and McLaren have all been linked as potential suitors, fueling rumours of a major shake-up.
Some journalists claim Aston Martin has already contacted his management, while Toto Wolff has openly praised Leclerc in the past. With McLaren also facing uncertainty over Oscar Piastri’s future, the driver market could erupt if Ferrari can’t provide Leclerc with a championship-calibre car. Yet despite the speculation, Leclerc maintains his focus is on restoring Ferrari to the top rather than seeking an exit.
After the Abu Dhabi finale, Leclerc reiterated his belief in Ferrari’s rebuild, noting the motivation within the team and the opportunity brought by next year’s regulation changes. For now, he remains committed — but 2026 may determine whether he stays to complete his long-term contract or becomes the centerpiece of the next big Formula One transfer saga.
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