Ferrari’s chairman John Elkann has dropped a significant hint that star drivers Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz will be donning the iconic red racing suits of the Scuderia beyond their current contracts. With the Italian team eyeing the upcoming 2026 F1 regulations, securing the continuity of its leading men seems to be part of a long-term strategy to return to championship glory.
Between the lines
- Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz are expected to remain with Ferrari past their 2024 contracts, aligning with the team’s future plans.
- Despite a mixed 2023 season, Ferrari’s only victory came courtesy of Sainz, with Leclerc finishing fifth in the Drivers’ standings.
- Elkann’s comments at Exor’s Investor Day in Turin signal confidence in the current lineup and the team’s direction.
- Both drivers have expressed a desire to stay with Ferrari, with contract discussions likely to take place after the season ends.
Go deeper
The winds of change are blowing through the paddocks of Formula 1, and at the heart of the storm is Ferrari, a team synonymous with racing excellence, yet one that’s been chasing the elusive championship in recent years. Elkann’s hints about the future of Leclerc and Sainz aren’t just idle chatter; they’re a declaration of intent. Ferrari knows that consistency is key in a sport where milliseconds matter, and having a stable driver lineup is crucial as the team prepares for the major regulatory overhaul in 2026.
Leclerc, with his razor-sharp precision and Sainz, with his fiery determination, have become more than just drivers; they’re the embodiment of Ferrari’s racing spirit. The 2023 season may not have been a fairy tale, but it was a chapter filled with learning curves and a solitary win that broke the monotony of Red Bull’s dominance. This victory not only showcased Sainz’s prowess but also served as a reminder of Ferrari’s latent potential.
Behind the scenes, there’s more than just the hum of engines and the clatter of tools. There’s a strategic game being played, and Elkann’s recent comments are part of this. By publicly backing his drivers, he’s sending a clear message to the team, the fans, and the F1 community: Ferrari is building for the future, and they’re doing it with Leclerc and Sainz at the helm.
The drivers themselves aren’t just passive players in this narrative. Leclerc’s swift dismissal of rumors about his future and Sainz’s candid talk about his desire to stay with the team underscore their commitment to Ferrari’s cause. It’s not just about driving; it’s about belonging, about being part of a legacy, and about the pursuit of excellence.
As the 2023 season fades into the rearview mirror, the focus shifts to the future. Ferrari’s SF-23 showed flashes of brilliance, particularly in qualifying. The challenge now is to translate that one-lap pace into consistent race-day performances. Elkann’s vision for the team is clear: those pole positions need to become podium finishes, and ultimately, championship titles.
In the high-octane world of Formula 1, where every second on the track is a battle against time, Ferrari’s strategy is taking shape off the track. With Elkann’s hints, the stage is set for Leclerc and Sainz to continue their journey with the Prancing Horse, driving not just for victories but for a legacy that transcends the checkered flag.
