Leclerc admits he had alternatives before committing to Ferrari: 'There were offers'

By extending his stay with Ferrari once again, Leclerc has made it clear where he sees his future. The Monegasque has chosen to continue his journey with the Scuderia despite the frustrations and near misses of recent seasons, placing his trust in the team's long-term ambitions as he enters the prime years of his Formula 1 career.

The renewed commitment strengthens a relationship that began long before his arrival in Formula 1 and could eventually see him establish himself among the most enduring figures ever to race in Ferrari colours. While the ultimate goal of winning a world championship remains unfulfilled, Leclerc's latest decision reflects his belief that success can still be achieved at Maranello.

Asked whether he had received offers from other teams before committing his future to Ferrari, the Monegasque confirmed that there had been interest elsewhere: "They were, yes. I'm not going to say who, but they can say it if they want. But for me, Ferrari was always the choice."

Leclerc is now in his eighth season with Ferrari and, despite establishing himself as one of Formula 1's leading drivers, he has yet to win a world championship or even mount a sustained title challenge. More often than not, the Monegasque has not had a car capable of fighting for the crown, while on the occasions Ferrari appeared to possess championship-winning potential, that competitiveness failed to last across an entire season.

Asked whether he had been able to include any contractual conditions related to Ferrari's timeline for delivering a championship-winning project, Leclerc avoided going into the specifics of his agreement.

The Monegasque instead reiterated the deep bond he shares with the Scuderia, stressing that winning with Ferrari carries a unique meaning for him and remains the goal he has dedicated his Formula 1 career to pursuing. While declining to reveal details of the contract itself, he acknowledged that such topics naturally formed part of the discussions surrounding his renewal.