Ferrari Star Charles Leclerc Diffuses Mercedes Rumors With a “Two Years” Timeline: “It’s Not the Time Yet”

The 2022/23 silly season has wrapped up. However, in this uncertain world of Formula 1, there is always room for some silly business, even if it’s about the future. This future silly business is surrounding Charles Leclerc as the Monegasque enters his second last contractual season with Ferrari. However, the Ferrari man defused the situation by putting the focus on the present instead of discussing the future.

The Monegasque took to the track for the first time in 2023 at the unveiling of the Ferrari SF-23. After showcasing the 2023 challenger, Charles Leclerc took to the mic to interact with the media including Motorsport. This is when Leclerc discussed his contract situation and shrugged off the Mercedes rumors.

When asked about the renewal post-2024, Leclerc shifted the focus to the present. “I mean, I think it’s always important to be competitive. Then, speaking of my renewal at Ferrari, it’s not something I’ve given particular thought to yet. There’s still a long way to go: two years. Naturally, I’ll do my best. Not for the negotiations, but for myself and for the team. And then, of course, I’ll know,” he said.

The Monegasque did, however, reveal everyone will know when the renewal is discussed. “You’ll know for sure when the negotiations start. But it’s not the time yet,” he concluded.

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This is the first time Leclerc has shredded off the Mercedes rumors as well. The Monegasque might be nearing his contract end, but there are little to no signs of him leaving the team, not yet at least.

Although, speaking of the present, the Ferrari man cannot make any predictions for the upcoming season.

Charles Leclerc foresees the 2023 F1 season as extremely unpredictable

Red Bull and Max Verstappen are the clear favorites heading into the 2023 season. However, one can never predict the outcome of a race, let alone the entire season. This is exactly what Leclerc also communicated when asked to predict the 2023 season.

“In short, it’s very difficult to make predictions. I’m sure we did a good job with the car, but I don’t really know where Red Bull is. I don’t know where Mercedes is but I expect them to be very strong too. So, let’s see,” he said.

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However, this does not translate to a lack of confidence in himself and his team. The start of 2022 gave Ferrari hope, which they would look to build on in the upcoming season.