Leclerc may face life-changing choice in 2026, and it all hangs on Ferrari

18:44, 11 Jun

Updated: 20:06, 11 Jun

byNorberto Mujica

Charles Leclerc joined Ferrari with the hopes any driver would hold: winning the title with the Scuderia. However in his 7th season with the team he's no closer to achieving that dream, and in 2026 he may look elsewhere.

Whereas Ferrari seemed poised to fight for both titles this season, following a rather impressive turn around in 2024, the team has failed demonstrably to fulfill such expectations. So far the team has three podium finishes, all with Charles Leclerc's name on top.

In a Q&A on Motorsport Italy, famed journalist Roberto Chinchero believes that 2026 may be a breaking point in Ferrari's future.

“This is one of the many responsibilities Ferrari will have in 2026,” Chinchero explained. “The 2026 car will decide many things for the future of Ferrari."

Charles Leclerc fighting Max Verstappen for P3 at the Spanish Grand Prix

Leclerc to face extreme choice in 2026?

“That car will determine many choices, including whether Leclerc will stay at Maranello," says Chinchero. "If the car is competitive, I think there will be no reason for Leclerc to change squad. Leclerc loves Ferrari."

Should Ferrari's performance prove to be dissapointing yet again, then Leclerc would be forced to make a choice: Stay at Ferrari whilst watching others win titles, or leave and try his luck elsewhere.

“But it could become a golden prison – you have realised a dream of becoming a Ferrari Formula 1 driver, you have achieved worldwide fame, you have become very wealthy, but you see others win."

“After a while, this can be a cause for frustration. If the car doesn’t go well, everything will collapse.”