According to Ferrari’s Formula 1 competitor Charles Leclerc, the Italian racing squad faces a critical juncture, a “now or never” moment, to contend for top titles with the complete overhaul of regulations set for 2026.
Ferrari’s standing declined from second to fourth place this season, a consequence of underperforming at the outset of the 2025 championship, prompting a strategic shift to dedicate all aerodynamic development to the upcoming year’s vehicle starting in April.
This culminated in a disheartening season, devoid of any Grand Prix victories for Leclerc and new team member Lewis Hamilton, with Hamilton concluding the year by failing to advance beyond Q1 in three successive races.
With the squad and its leader Fred Vasseur facing growing criticism in Italy throughout the season, Leclerc fully comprehends that Ferrari’s decisions have amplified expectations for the new regulatory framework, particularly given that the Monaco native has been patiently anticipating a title-contending vehicle since 2019.
When questioned about his continued faith in the Scuderia delivering such a car, Leclerc affirmed, “I certainly do, and the forthcoming year will be profoundly significant.
“The entire squad is immensely eager for the next season, as it represents a monumental transformation and a vast chance to demonstrate Ferrari’s capabilities. This is our moment; therefore, I genuinely anticipate we will commence this fresh chapter successfully, as it holds great importance for the subsequent four years.”
“Around the sixth or seventh race, I believe we will gain clear insight into which teams are poised to lead the field for the four years thereafter.”
Charles Leclerc, Ferrari
Photo by: Erik Junius
Reflecting on the season without a victory, he remarked, “It’s challenging; whether it’s the most challenging, I cannot say. I prefer to shed those unfavorable feelings swiftly, so I am unsure if it marks the absolute low point, but without doubt, it has been exceedingly disheartening.”
Together with George Russell, occupying a comparable role at Mercedes, Leclerc has been recognized as a top performer in 2025, apart from the three leading title contenders, with both drivers securing fourth and fifth positions.
“I actually consider my season to be strong,” Leclerc stated during the Las Vegas Grand Prix last month. “I believe my performance was good. Yet, there are perpetually areas for improvement.
“In my initial year, I recall my shortcomings were quite apparent, but one addresses them, continuously refining even the most minute aspects. Currently, these are more subtle details, but they nonetheless have an impact. Consequently, those will be my primary areas of attention.”
