Charles Leclerc has opened up about his decision to extend his Ferrari contract through at least 2030, revealing that he actually had other opportunities on the table before committing his future to the Scuderia. The 28-year-old Monégasque driver confirmed during an appearance on the Beyond the Grid podcast that while he never personally negotiated with rival teams, his manager Nicolas Todt was actively exploring what else was out there in the paddock.

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Here's the thing though, when Leclerc and Ferrari sat down to hammer out the details, it all came together pretty quickly. The new deal marks Ferrari's longest-ever driver contract, extending what he'd already signed back in 2019 when he impressed everyone with his performances that season. At that point he penned a five-year agreement, and now he's locked in for even longer. Over his time in red so far, he's racked up nine race wins, 27 pole positions, and 54 podium finishes.

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The real reason Leclerc stayed put? That's where team principal Fred Vasseur comes in. Leclerc has nothing but praise for his boss, calling him a major factor in his decision to recommit. They've got history together from his Sauber days back in 2021, and Leclerc clearly rates him massively. He explained how they just clicked from the moment they started working together, with a connection that goes beyond the usual business relationship.

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Leclerc's got complete faith in where Vasseur is taking the team and what they're building together. He described it as a privilege to work with someone he's known for years at a club he's always loved. That kind of stability and belief in leadership clearly mattered more to him than exploring whatever other offers might have been floating around. Next season he's set to become Ferrari's all-time highest race starter, so there's plenty left to accomplish in red.

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