Kimi Antonelli’s new Mercedes contract fuels Charles Leclerc speculation in F1 Paddock

During an episode of ESPN’s Unlapped podcast from Circuit of the Americas, journalist Nate Saunders discussed how Antonelli’s new deal might create an opening for Leclerc, who has made no secret of his frustrations with Ferrari this year.

He said: “What was interesting about it, though, was that there was the suggestion of a multi-year deal. The conventional wisdom in the paddock has been for a while that George would get a one-year deal to kind of free them up to get Max maybe down the line.

“But I think that’s now where the pressure has gone towards Antonelli. He’s got a one-year deal, and if he doesn’t perform next year, I think Wolff looks to move him on.”

Charles Leclerc expected to make a decision on Ferrari’s future in 2026

Leclerc is still waiting for Ferrari to match his talent with a car that can compete at the front of the grid. Despite being one of the top drivers without a title, the Scuderia’s recent cars haven’t given him much hope.

Speaking to Sky Sport Italia during the United States Grand Prix, journalist Roberto Chinchero explained that while winning a title with Ferrari remains Leclerc’s ‘obsession’, there may be a deadline looming if results don’t improve.

He said: “It’s clear that next year, the first half of the season will decide a lot of things. As with Russell, if things go well, there’s really no reason to look elsewhere.

“If things don’t go well, though, that’s a different story. I’d add an asterisk there because in that case, a big market opens up. And if things don’t work out, it would only be logical for him to start looking around.

“Maybe he still keeps an eye on Ferrari, but I think it’s perfectly reasonable to explore other options.”