Charles Leclerc has provided an update on his future in Formula 1, hinting that he is keen to remain at Ferrari beyond the 2024 campaign.
Leclerc’s current contract expires at the end of next year and there have been rumours linking him to other outfits on the grid.
The Monegasque driver has taken five grand prix victories during his stint at the Maranello-based squad to date but has been unable to challenge for a World Championship.
Speaking to Autosport, Leclerc admitted that he has explored the option of departing Ferrari and setting up camp elsewhere.
“Of course, I think every driver has considered their different options, once they get the [possibility],” he said.
However, the 25-year-old says that his primary focus is to remain at Ferrari going forward.
“But I have a huge love of Ferrari. And my first target and my first dream is to become a World Champion with Ferrari, more than anything else.
“So, if there’s a slight opportunity for it to happen, I will have no doubt about pushing to stay here at least.”
Ferrari entered the 2023 campaign hoping to be consistently competing at the front of the field, after returning to the top spot of the podium last year.
However, it has been unable to challenge runaway leaders Red Bull and currently sits fourth in the Constructors’ Championship after the opening 12 rounds.
“It is clear, I think for everybody within the team, that we are not happy with the situation we are in today, in that we want to win,” Leclerc added.
“But I love Ferrari. It feels like home to me. And I cannot say much more because there has been no discussion whatsoever apart from a few jokes here and there.”
Leclerc has been part of the Ferrari family for several years, joining its driver academy in 2016 before being promoted to the F1 squad in 2019.
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