Charles Leclerc makes Ferrari demand as key opportunity spied

Charles Leclerc has asserted Ferrari must not give up on development of its 2025 car despite its difficult start to the season.

Ferrari has been unable to consistently compete against front-runners McLaren and Red Bull across the opening rounds as it entered the season hoping to challenge for the title.

Last weekend marked its most competitive showing to date, with Leclerc crossing the line in second place behind race-winner Lando Norris.

Teams are already casting an eye toward 2026 when new technical regulations threaten to shake up the pecking order.

Despite its slow start to the current season, Leclerc asserted it is still too early to cast aside its hopes for the remainder of the year.

“We definitely don’t want to give up now,” Leclerc told media including RacingNews365. 

“It’s still kind of early. I mean, we’re getting to mid-season soon, but we cannot afford to give up now. 

“We’ve seen last year the situation changed a lot since when McLaren brought those upgrades.”

Charles Leclerc hopes Barcelona sparks reset

The upcoming race weekend in Barcelona will see a fresh rule change as the FIA impose stricter tests on the flexing front wings.

While it's unclear how much it could see a switch up in the pecking order, Leclerc is hopeful it will benefit the Ferrari squad.

“I believe Barcelona will be another very important point of the season with this new regulation on the front wings, and then we’ll see whether it benefits us or not,” he said.

“Then we’ll have to make the decision – probably Fred will have to make the decision – whether it’s the right time to move on and prepare next season, that is going to be super, super important for everyone to be starting on the right foot. 

“What is wrong with the car? I wish I knew. What’s in the pipeline? We’ve got quite a few things, but I cannot give any timelines. 

“And the timelines keep changing because the team is pushing a lot to bring them as early as possible. 

“There are things, but whether it’s going to be enough to close the gap – I hope so. But to be in front and fighting for wins, I’m not sure yet.”