Charles Leclerc’s next Formula 1 move: Where could the Ferrari star go if he leaves Maranello?
Just a few months ago, it would have been unthinkable that Ferrari’s leading driver, Charles Leclerc, could become a central figure in the 2027 Formula 1 driver market. However, growing frustration within the Scuderia and the ongoing challenges with the SF-25 have shifted speculation firmly onto the Monegasque star’s future.
Charles Leclerc has spent nearly his entire Formula 1 career racing for Ferrari. The talented driver was first scouted by the Italian team during his junior career, and after spending a single season at Sauber, he was promoted to Ferrari to replace Kimi Raikkonen as Sebastian Vettel’s teammate. From that moment on, Leclerc quickly became a fan favourite, earning the nickname “Il Predestinato” – the Predestined One – due to his exceptional skill and potential.
Despite his immense talent, Charles Leclerc has endured a difficult 2025 season. The Ferrari SF-25 has struggled with balance and reliability, while drivers such as Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris have surpassed him in race wins. Ferrari’s position in the Constructors’ Championship has also suffered, adding further pressure on both the Monegasque and team principal Fred Vasseur. Although Leclerc is under a long-term contract, it is increasingly apparent that the 27-year-old is growing impatient with the team’s performance.
Following the Singapore Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc openly admitted that Ferrari has little chance of winning races this year. This candid admission has ignited speculation about his potential exit, with Mercedes and Red Bull repeatedly mentioned as possible destinations for the 2027 season. Many in the paddock see a departure of Charles Leclerc as the ultimate sign that Ferrari are struggling to maintain competitiveness.
Leclerc’s options if Ferrari continue to underperform
Commentator Alex Jacques recently discussed Charles Leclerc’s potential next move on The Race F1 Podcast. He suggested that if Ferrari fail to meet expectations in the coming season, Leclerc will need to seriously consider changing teams to continue challenging for championships. According to Jacques, the most likely scenario would involve Leclerc targeting a team powered by a Mercedes engine, given his desire for a competitive car capable of winning titles.
Jacques compared the situation to Fernando Alonso’s career, highlighting how a poorly timed career move can impact a driver’s championship opportunities. Alonso, despite his immense talent, missed chances to fight for multiple titles due to decisions that didn’t pay off. Charles Leclerc, now 27 and soon turning 28, has time to rectify his career trajectory before reaching the critical age of 30. Making the right team choice now could be crucial for his long-term legacy in Formula 1.
In practical terms, Jacques outlined two clear pathways for Charles Leclerc: either joining Aston Martin, benefiting from Adrian Newey’s innovative car design, or choosing a Mercedes-powered team to maximize his chances of winning races and championships. With a rules reset approaching in 2026, the Monegasque’s value on the market is expected to surge, making him one of the most sought-after drivers heading into the new technical era. His performance in qualifying and race conditions could dramatically influence where he lands if he decides to leave Ferrari.
Ferrari chairman reassures fans amid Leclerc rumors
While speculation swirls around Charles Leclerc’s potential exit, Ferrari chairman John Elkann has offered assurances about the team’s future, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to regaining competitiveness. For Charles Leclerc, the ideal scenario remains a long-term future at Maranello, continuing to fight for championships with the team that discovered and nurtured his talent.
However, with Max Verstappen, George Russell, both McLaren drivers, and Fernando Alonso all vying for titles under the new 2026 regulations, Ferrari must ensure that both Charles Leclerc and teammate Lewis Hamilton are fully equipped to compete at the highest level. Failure to deliver a competitive car could jeopardize Charles Leclerc’s loyalty and place Ferrari in a precarious position, as the Monegasque star considers his next career-defining move.
Ultimately, the combination of Ferrari’s current underperformance, the competitive threat from rival teams, and Leclerc’s own ambitions makes 2026 a pivotal year for both the driver and the Scuderia. The next moves he makes could not only define his legacy but also reshape the competitive landscape of Formula 1 for years to come.
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