Charles Leclerc denies that he is negotiating with Mercedes to replace Lewis Hamilton in the long term. The Monegask has long been linked with a switch to the Silver Arrows if he cannot win the world championship with Ferrari. But there is no question of a transfer, Leclerc tells Quotidiano Nazionale.
The 25-year-old insists he is in no hurry to extend his contract with his current team. “I know you’re afraid I could go to Mercedes, but frankly there are no negotiations,” says the five-time Grand Prix winner, whose contract expires at the end of 2024 with the Italian top team.
Leclerc feels good at Ferrari
Leclerc still feels at home at Maranello and sees no need to look at other options. “I feel good at Ferrari, I feel the enthusiasm of the people. I am excited by the idea of ​​crowning the dream, mine and everyone else’s, to win with Ferrari. I’m leaving for Bahrain on Monday and I honestly can’t wait to be there. We will test for three days together with all rivals.’
Leclerc does not yet have a clear opinion about the new car, the SF-23. “There’s little point in asking myself how I rate the new car. I immediately said that the first impression was good, but it all depends on the comparison with the other cars,” the 25-year-old 2022 vice-champion is cautious about his expectations for next season.
