The Monegasque finished the final race just off the podium, with the Maranello team ending the season without a single win—something that has happened only twice in the past ten years.

Asked how difficult it will be to move past the disappointment of a year like this ahead of a crucial 2026 for Ferrari, Leclerc told GPblog: “It’s tough, but at the same time, I think the whole team is hugely motivated for next year because it’s such a big change, a huge opportunity to show what Ferrari is capable of and it’s now or never.”

When asked if he still believes in the dream of becoming World Champion with Ferrari, Leclerc added: "I do, and next year will be a crucial year. I really hope that we will start this new era on the right foot, because it’s important for the four years after.”

Finally, when asked whether the teams that dominate the opening races of next season will be the ones to monopolize the next regulatory cycle, the Monegasque concluded: “I think it will be, yes. Maybe not the first three, four races but by race six, seven, I think we’ll have a good idea of who are the teams that will be dominating for the four years.”

Verstappen praised Leclerc’s strong race in Abu Dhabi, noting how the Monegasque pushed Norris hard for a podium—a challenge that could have swung a fifth consecutive title in the Dutchman’s favor.

At one stage, the Ferrari driver was hoping for a penalty on Norris after a daring move on Yuki Tsunoda, finding himself just over two seconds behind the McLaren.

Ultimately, though, Leclerc couldn’t keep up with the MCL39, despite delivering one of his finest drives of the season, crossing the line seven seconds shy of the podium.