30 June 2023 , 09:19
1207
0
Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur has contradicted Charles Leclerc's claims that talks over a new contract have begun, saying that such discussions are a 'distraction'.
Both Leclerc and teammate Carlos Sainz are set to see their contracts expire within the next 18 months, with rumours circulating regarding an offer to Lewis Hamilton from the Mugello-based outfit. Ferrari currently sit fourth in the Constructors' Championship, with their season having failed to live up to its potential so far, with only fleeting signs of their car's pace.
Vasseur had arrived from Alfa Romeo at the start of this season , with the aim of correcting such failures and unlocking the potential of a car which showed great pace in 2022. However, they have moved backwards, entering a race weekend which they won in 2022 with little chance of victory as Max Verstappen and Red Bull continue to dominate.
Despite this season's struggles and signs of discontent, Leclerc has reiterated his commitment to Ferrari ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix this weekend. Speaking to Sky F1 he outlined his intentions, explaining that conversations had 'slowly' begun with regards to a new deal, with his current contract set to expire at the end of next season.
"To be honest, it's not really on my mind yet. When I say we slowly started talking about it, it's just here and there, but nothing special, nothing specific." He added. "I love Ferrari, so I'm happy here".
New Ferrari chief reacts to Mohammed ben Sulayem scandals and the FIA's F1 storm
"Of course, the team and I are not happy with where we are at the moment," Leclerc continued. "But I think we're all working in the right direction.
"And I am confident that we are working in the right direction. And, again, I love Ferrari, so I'm happy here."
Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc both see their contracts at Ferrari expire next season ((Photo by Kym Illman/Getty Images))After eight rounds last season, Ferrari were second in the Constructors' Championship, pushing Red Bull with back-to back wins in Britain and Austria, but they now have 77 points less at the same stage. Pace is a factor, but strategic problems remain, with Vasseur yet to correct the issues within the team.
Now, he has suggested that conversations with Leclerc have not yet taken place, having told both his and Sainz's managers that they will only begin in the summer, with the current focus on improving performance.
Vasseur told Corriere della Sera : “There are 18 months to go, the same goes for Charles. At this moment introducing the renewal topic would be a distraction, I told their managers a couple of weeks ago.
“The priority is for the drivers to work together to develop the car. Then during the summer, or afterwards, we will start talking about it.”