Charles Leclerc has inked a fresh contract with Ferrari, securing his presence with the team for the upcoming seasons.

Charles Leclerc has inked a fresh contract with Ferrari, securing his presence with the team for the upcoming seasons.

The 26-year-old burst onto the Formula 1 scene with Sauber, dazzling everyone with his skills. After a stellar debut season in 2019, he sealed the deal with a five-year contract that echoed the promise of greatness.

The Monegasque sensation, Leclerc, etched his mark by finishing a commendable fifth in the drivers' championship last season. Overflowing with emotion, he revealed, "To race for this team has been my dream since I was three years old." The echoes of his childhood dreams resonated as he reminisced watching the Monaco Grand Prix, gazing out of a friend's apartment window at Saint Devote corner, always fixating on the iconic red cars.

Speaking with unwavering passion, Leclerc described Ferrari as his second family since joining the Ferrari driver academy in 2016. Through thick and thin over the past five years, they've achieved milestones together. "However, I believe the best is yet to come, and I can't wait for this season to start, to make further progress and be competitive at every race. My dream remains that of winning the World Championship with Ferrari."

In the midst of the excitement, Ferrari left the contract length ambiguous, creating an air of anticipation. The previous deal was set until the end of 2024, and whispers suggest the new one spans an additional five years, embracing the journey until 2029.

Financial commitments also reflect the rising tide of success, with Leclerc's reported salary poised to double from 25 million euros (£21.3 million) to a staggering 50 million euros (£42.6 million) at the contract's culmination.

Leclerc's journey with the Italian powerhouse boasts five triumphant race wins and an impressive 23 pole positions. The pinnacle was the 2022 season, where he clinched second place in the drivers' championship and celebrated victory in three exhilarating grands prix.

Team principal Fred Vasseur emotionally spoke of the intertwining values, emphasizing the natural alignment that led to extending their collaboration. "We know him for his incessant desire to push himself to the limit, and we appreciate his extraordinary abilities when it comes to fighting and overtaking in a race. We are determined to give Charles a winning car, and I know that his determination and commitment are elements that can make the difference in helping us reach our goals." The stage is set for a journey fueled by dreams, dedication, and the pursuit of victory.