Leclerc was considering not only Ferrari's offer.
At the FIA press conference on Thursday in Monaco, Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc revealed that he considered other options for continuing his career besides extending his contract with the current team. The driver did not name them but emphasized that Ferrari has always been his first choice.
Charles Leclerc: "Yes, I had other options, but I won't say which ones. Those teams can speak for themselves if they want to, but for me, Ferrari has always been the first choice. I love this team – I think that's obvious from the outside.
I have been racing for the Formula 1 team for eight years and have been in the Ferrari system for ten years. They were among the first to believe in me and helped me become who I am today. I believe in this project. Fred Vasseur and I have a very good relationship, and I firmly believe that he is the one who can bring Ferrari back to the top.
I share his vision and believe in him. This is the first car that has been fully built under his leadership. Our car incorporates many innovative solutions, and we are adhering to a long-term vision for the project's development. Although not too long-term, because we want to start winning as soon as possible, and that's why I believe in this project more than ever."
Speaking about the prospects for 2026, Charles stated: "We had a decent start to the season, although not as good as we would have liked, as our goal is to fight for the title. We understand where we are lacking – primarily in the power unit. We have a plan for our next steps, and we hope it will help us return to the positions we want to be in.
I love this team and believe in the project. That's why we continue to move forward together."
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