Translation:
Charles Leclerc reportedly renewed his contract with Scuderia Ferrari . In detail, it is a firm 2025-2026 agreement and 2027-2028-2029 in the form of options. For some time now, the Monegasque driver's entourage has been probing the paddock. Discussions with Mercedes, Aston Martin, Alpine and even Red Bull have taken place. The German manufacturer's option was the most serious, in the event of a replacement for Lewis Hamilton, Toto Wolff believes that Charles Leclerc is a good candidate to face Max Verstappen in the future. This is what the whole paddock thinks.
His current contract expiring in 2024, the pilot had already had a certain largesse this year. Mattia Binotto, before his ousting and to compensate for the terrible second half of the season at Scuderia Ferrari, had agreed to anticipate his driver's remuneration schedule. Clearly, Leclerc receives in 2023, what he was to receive in 2024, i.e. 20 million euros , according to our Business Book GP partner . Thus indicating the basic value of a future contract and above all the beginning of an anticipation of discussions. A contract that was quickly negotiated to be finally accepted in recent weeks.
A 5-year contract extension would have been concluded between the two parties. On the Monegasque side, the ambition is to see the market come by 2026. On the Scuderia side, securing its spearhead and a motivation to keep it in the long term. The second part of the contract in the form of an option will, in the form of performance clauses, release Charles Leclerc from his Ferrari contract each season. Remuneration remains. Early rumors point to a contract total of over 185 million euros ($220 million) and compensation that could reach 50 million euros in the final year.
Part of me almost wonders whether Leclerc cares as much about titles as he does about the money. I know at the end of the day it's a job, but Leclerc would have been wanted by any other team on the grid. I'm honestly surprised that Leclerc didn't want to see if any other teams came in with better offers and a staff and car that put him in a better position to win races.
On the other hand, where else would he go? Red Bull isn’t giving up Max for anything, and Merc isn’t ready to give up on Lewis. McLaren’s banking on their rising (risen?) star with Lando, and Aston is playing the part of a comeback hero for Alonso.
Maybe Lewis retires soon? shrugs
Until a few races ago I would have said it was looking more likely each race but they’ve made some ground back and he seems a tiny bit less likely to bail now.
Meanwhile, I wonder when Sainz's deal is up...
Might depend on how much they fix the porpoising without losing performance.
There is a certain panache that comes witha Ferrari, though. It's such an iconic brand.
You're absolutely not wr...wait a second...I see that username. Hol'up!
Ferrari has a very very special place in Charles heart. It's like the crazy partner you know you should leave, but you love them too much.