Charles Leclerc delivers clear Ferrari demand over 2026 F1 car

Charles Leclerc has signalled the importance for Ferrari to start the sport's new era on a strong note or risk enduring another period of challenging results.

The regulations will undergo a major change next year, with significant alterations being made to both the chassis and power unit.

Having spent most of his F1 career to date at Ferrari, Leclerc has not had a serious shot at the drivers' title during his seven-season stint with the Italian squad.

However, he has committed his long-term future to the team as he looks to end Ferrari's title drought, which stretches back to 2008.

Ferrari has also penned an extension with team boss Fred Vasseur, which Leclerc has labelled a key development for the squad.

“Fred is definitely part of it, but the biggest part is to see how the team works,” Leclerc told media including RacingNews365 when asked about his confidence in Ferrari's future. 

“I'm sure we are working in the right direction.”

With the sport's new era fast approaching, teams are busy implementing their own iterations of the rule book, which may create bigger gaps in the pecking order.

Leclerc insisted it will be critical to begin the 2026 campaign as a contender as the development schedule for all teams will be at full thrust.

“Next year will be a big turning point for us as it will be a new era of cars,” he said. 

“Whenever you start a new era, if you are not starting it on the right foot, it's always more difficult to come back because other teams are also pushing for upgrades. 

“To close the gap is very difficult. We'll have to start that on the right foot and then we'll see. 

“For now, I'm fully dedicated to try and make Ferrari great again and to win races again.”