Charles Leclerc on Fernando Alonso’s new contract: “He deserves it. I won’t be in F1 at 43”. Charles Leclerc shares his thoughts on Fernando Alonso's contract renewal with Aston Martin.

Three days of simulator to get the tire going
“No one likes to finish second, I want to win, if there’s an opportunity in China, I shouldn’t let it slip away.” Scuderia Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc hasn’t stood on the top step of the Formula 1 podium since the Austrian Grand Prix back in 2022, nearly two years ago. The Monegasque is in good company as during this time only Max Verstappen, Sergio Perez, Carlos Sainz, and George Russell have won races, but the potential of the Ferrari SF-24 cars will likely give Charles Leclerc some ammunition to fire this season.

However, the important thing is to hit the mark as Carlos Sainz already did at the Albert Park circuit in the Australian Grand Prix. Charles Leclerc must first redeem two negative Qualifying sessions in Australia and Japan: “I spent three days working in the simulator to figure out how to get the tire going – Charles Leclerc stated to Sky Sport microphones – in China there will be two Qualifying sessions and two races with the opportunity to score many points and I’ll have to be ready.” – the Monegasque driver pointed out.

The Scuderia Ferrari driver also commented on Fernando Alonso’s renewal with Aston Martin, as the Spanish driver will remain in Formula 1 at least until 2026: “Fernando is one of the most talented drivers on the grid, he deserves his place in Formula 1, there are also many young drivers who deserve their place, but it’s not easy to find the balance. I probably won’t be in Formula 1 until I’m 43 even though I love it very much, I also want to try other categories including definitely racing at Le Mans.” – Scuderia Ferrari Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc concluded.