Charles Leclerc reveals rival interest before Ferrari extension

It turns out the rest of the grid knows a special driver when they see one. Ahead of his home race at the Monaco Grand Prix, 28-year-old Charles Leclerc has confirmed that he held concrete discussions with rival teams before finalizing his new multi-year deal to stay with Ferrari.

While he kept the names of these suitors a secret, he was adamant that his heart never really strayed. The partnership that began back in his Ferrari Driver Academy days in 2016 is clearly a bond of loyalty for him. Having clocked eight race wins and 27 pole positions since joining the Scuderia in 2019, it is easy to see why others came calling.

For Leclerc, the decision was simple. He credits his faith in the project under Fred Vasseur and a deep, decade-long history with the brand as the primary drivers behind his decision. He isn't just looking at the past, though; he is focused on a plan to address the car's current limitations, particularly on the engine side, to reach their ultimate goal of a World Championship.