According to reports from Sky Germany ahead of the qualifying session for the Canadian Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc and Ferrari were said to be very close to finalizing a contract extension for the Monegasque driver. However, the latest debacle at the Gilles Villeneuve Circuit may have overturned the situation, casting more doubts and shadows on Charles Leclerc’s desire to continue with the Prancing Horse.
Charles Leclerc close to renewal before the qualifying debacle in Canada, now the plans change?
Adding fuel to the fire regarding the delicate situation of the Monegasque driver, Peter Hardenacke, a television commentator for Sky Germany, stated that the two parties were very close to reaching an agreement to extend the contract beyond its natural expiration in 2024.
However, after yet another season’s debacle, culminating in a strong outburst in the post-qualifying interview, Charles Leclerc’s renewal with the Maranello team no longer appears so certain. In Montreal, we witnessed yet another potential opportunity squandered by the Maranello team, although the Monegasque driver calmly admitted his share of the blame.
Charles Leclerc heavily criticized the team for sending him out on intermediates tires on a completely dry track. He also expressed his complaints over the radio, immediately requesting a switch to soft tires to avoid the risk of rain.
Rain indeed arrived in the final stages of Q2, preventing the Monegasque from improving his time. He remained in 11th position, which became 10th due to his teammate Carlos Sainz’s penalty. However, the driver also had his own faults in this case. If he hadn’t made a mistake on the final chicane, Charles Leclerc’s time would have been enough to advance to Q3.
Show your support for Scuderia Ferrari with official merchandise collection! Click here to enter the F1 online Store and shop securely! And also get your F1 tickets for every race with VIP hospitality and unparalleled insider access. Click here for the best offers to support Charles and Carlos from the track!
Nevertheless, this did not happen, and Charles Leclerc later clarified his comments during a live interview with Sky. However, while the information reported by the German commentator is not a 100% reliable confirmation, it is the first time there has been serious talk of a strained relationship between the Scuderia and Charles Leclerc. Therefore, the developments in the coming weeks should be carefully monitored.
Leave a Reply