Despite $204,000,000 Bias, Fred Vasseur Shuns Red Bull Approach to Deny Favoritism for Charles Leclerc

Charles Leclerc‘s journey in F1 has been one of promise and potential. Reports suggest that he is on the verge of signing a contract extension that could secure his role within Ferrari until 2029. The contract’s rumored value of $204,000,000 underlines Leclerc’s pivotal role in the team’s long-term strategy. While this contract extension seems imminent, it’s important to acknowledge that the ink has yet to dry on the official agreement, it’s just speculations so far. Meanwhile, Leclerc’s teammate, Carlos Sainz, also looms large on the team’s horizon, with his contract set to expire in 2024, with no news of a potential contract yet.

This rumored contract will not only ascertain Leclerc’s place as one of the highest-paid drivers but also serve as a testament to his importance within the team’s structure. As the tussle between Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz for supremacy within Ferrari intensifies, Frederic Vasseur resolutely champions a different approach. Vasseur’s perspective gains an added dimension when contrasted with the practices of rival teams. He draws an implicit comparison with Red Bull’s unmistakable preference for Max Verstappen, highlighting, “Two drivers should be given the same support, and I have no intention of changing. All the teams move in this way, with the exception of Red Bull with Verstappen and Perez.” While Red Bull places its bets on a solitary champion, Vasseur’s philosophy embraces the collective prowess of both Leclerc and Sainz.

While talking to F1: Beyond the Grid podcast, Vasseur when asked, “Would you like to build the future of Ferrari around Charles?” Vasseur responded, “I had the question at the beginning of the season and it was probably a misinterpretation of my answer. I think that we have two good drivers today Carlos and Charles they are doing a good job that we always have to improve and that as every single team member we have to do a better job and to continue to develop our skills and to improve. But both are doing a good job and I know also that we have to develop the team around the drivers.”

Read more: Enjoying Charles Leclerc’s Miseries, Carlos Sainz Names Best Drive of 2023 Being Meagre 3 Points Ahead of Teammate

This balanced assertion dispels notions of favoritism towards Charles Leclerc and echoes Vasseur’s commitment to the equitable treatment of both drivers. In an era where certain teams are perceived to favor one driver over another, Vasseur’s assertion that Ferrari’s approach differs is noteworthy. But as the spotlight shines on Charles Leclerc’s potential contract extension, another layer of uncertainty hovers over Ferrari’s driver lineup.

Carlos Sainz’s contract extension

Carlos Sainz’s contractual fate seems as certain as Leclerc’s. While both drivers are slated to complete their existing contracts by the conclusion of 2024, Sainz’s willingness to entertain a new agreement with Ferrari has been evident. Frederic Vasseur has voiced his intention to engage in talks with Sainz before the current season wraps up. This proactive approach underscores Vasseur’s determination to secure stability within the team’s driver lineup.

Vasseur’s efforts are aimed at charting a path to redemption. The team’s current standing at P4 in the Constructor Standings championship has led Vasseur to acknowledge the remarkable supremacy of Red Bull. Their flawless synchronization of chassis, aerodynamics, engine, drivers, and strategy has set them apart. In his bid to restore Ferrari’s glory, Vasseur has already embarked on a campaign to recruit essential personnel. While pursuing new talents, Vasseur emphasizes that these endeavors do not diminish his trust in Ferrari’s existing team. As he contemplates potential changes to Ferrari’s chassis and gearbox for 2024, Vasseur insists on forward progress across all aspects of the team’s operations.

WATCH THIS STORY: How Long Will Charles Leclerc Wait for Ferrari–Will He Leave for Some Other Team Post-2024? 

What do you think is Ferrari fair towards both its pilots?