Charles Leclerc has declared that clinching a Formula 1 world championship with Ferrari remains his ultimate “obsession” before he retires from the sport.
The 27-year-old Monegasque driver, now in his seventh season with the Italian team, boasts 126 race starts, placing him fourth on Ferrari’s all-time list of most experienced drivers, behind only legends Michael Schumacher, Kimi Raikkonen, and Felipe Massa.
Despite his tenure, victories have been hard-won for Leclerc. Ferrari faced turbulent times during his early years with them, limiting his chances to challenge for the title. Nevertheless, he has triumphed in eight grands prix, showcasing his talent, though a sustained championship bid has eluded him.
When pressed by journalists on whether his Ferrari journey would feel complete without a title, Leclerc said: “Yes, this is for sure. This is my one and only target, goal, and dream that remains to be ticked.
“I had quite a few dreams growing up, one was to be an F1 driver, then to race for Ferrari, then to win at Monza and Monaco, which I’ve done. Now, it’s only about being a world champion. That’s my obsession.”
Ferrari is entering a transformative phase in 2025, with seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton joining Leclerc in their driver lineup.
Hamilton’s blockbuster switch from Mercedes, where he enjoyed a glittering career, has sent shockwaves through the paddock. Yet Leclerc has brushed off any worries about being outshone by the British icon, insisting Ferrari’s unique team, first ethos prevents such rivalries.
“There’s no place for one particular driver at Ferrari,” Leclerc has said. “Ferrari are bigger than any driver, and I think that’s always been the case. That’s what makes them so special. The support is for the team, not one specific driver, so I don’t see it that way.
“Lewis joins as a legend of the sport, so naturally there’s more attention on him than me right now, but I’m fine with that. It’s normal, and I don’t think there’s a competition over who’s ‘the’ driver for Ferrari.”
The 2025 season kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix on March 16, where Ferrari aims to hit the ground running. The race, spanning 58 laps of the 5.278-kilometer Albert Park semi-street circuit, marks the start of what promises to be a thrilling campaign for the Scuderia and their revamped driver duo.
