Even if it’s over, it’s never really over! We are talking about the Formula 1 silly season! The driver lineup for the 2024 season is more or less going to be the same and we can predict hardly any change in the grid, except for one! The one change in the 2024 lineup could very surprisingly see Lewis Hamilton end his allegiance with Mercedes. Hamilton’s contract ends at the end of 2023 and despite extension talks, there is an air of uncertainty around the contract. This scenario, coupled with Ferrari’s struggles, has given birth to rumors of Charles Leclerc moving to Mercedes. However, for the first time, the bosses of both teams addressed these rumors with similar views.

The Mercedes and Ferrari bosses were quizzed about the possibility of the Monegasque switching sides. Both Wolff and Vasseur had similar views, as quoted by Formula Passion, on the topic but with one distinction.

“I think he is 100% dedicated and loyal to Ferrari, and there is a contract. And we are 100% committed to Lewis. Charles is a super guy and for the long-term future, he is a driver that you must always have on your radar, it is clear. But not for the short or medium term,” said Toto Wolff.

“All the rumors that Leclerc is away from Ferrari are nonsense. Charles loves Ferrari. He has said it several times. It is normal that in this initial part of the season, rumors about the future of the riders chase each other,” said Vasseur.

Read More: Charles Leclerc Issues a Thunderous “Promise” as Mercedes Rumors Start to Intensify

Both bosses are on the same page about Leclerc’s near future. However, there is an obvious difference of opinion on the long-term future of the Monegasque. There is no way of knowing where Leclerc will be beyond 2024. In fact, Leclerc himself did not clear the uncertain air surrounding his future beyond 2024.

Despite the confidence in the future of Charles Leclerc from his boss, the man himself left the topic open-ended

The life of a Formula 1 driver is extremely uncertain. There is no knowing which team will have what driver lineup or if a team will have the winning combination in a particular season. This is exactly why Leclerc left the topic of his long-term future open-ended. However, till 2024, at least, he is focusing his energy on the Italian team.

“Did we talk? No, not yet. Not for the moment. So for now, I’m fully focused on the project I’m in today: which is Ferrari. As I said, I have full confidence and I am confident for the future. We will see,” he said.

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

One can assume the debate will stretch on till the 2024 season. Although, Hamilton can add some twist to this tale if he decides to not extend with Mercedes.