Charles Leclerc has reaffirmed his determination to lead Ferrari out of a disappointing 2025 Formula 1 season marked by no race wins. Despite a tough year with setbacks across multiple events, the 27-year-old Monégasque driver remains resolute in his mission to restore Ferrari’s competitive stature, embracing the challenge known as the Charles Leclerc Ferrari comeback.
Ferrari entered the year with optimism following a strong finish in 2024 and the arrival of veteran Lewis Hamilton, but progress faltered quickly in the constructors’ standings, underscoring the challenges ahead.
Carrying the Weight of High Expectations
Leclerc faces immense pressure given his nickname Il Predestinato—The Predestined One—a label that could overwhelm many drivers. Instead, he has turned this burden into a source of motivation, focusing his efforts on reclaiming Ferrari’s status at the summit of Formula 1.
At the end of the day, whether I’m called like that or not, my duty and my goal are the same. It’s to bring Ferrari back to the top,
Leclerc told The Athletic.
I’ll do absolutely everything in order to achieve that.
Starting the season, Ferrari hoped to build on their narrow margin behind McLaren in 2024. However, McLaren made more significant improvements this year, which Leclerc acknowledged affected Ferrari’s competitiveness.
You hope to build on that,
he reflected.
Unfortunately, McLaren did a much bigger step than all the other teams.
Early races revealed the difficulties Ferrari faced. In Australia, Leclerc and Hamilton finished outside the points, and in China, a double disqualification due to excessive plank wear forced technical compromises that compromised race pace throughout the season.
Finding Contentment Beyond the Track
Despite professional frustrations, Leclerc maintains a positive outlook on life outside racing. He credits his happiness to personal relationships and a balanced perspective, which has helped him endure the stresses of a winless campaign.
When asked about his well-being, Leclerc described himself as very, very happy, highlighting the support of his family and friends as vital factors in his contentment.
This mindset reflects his maturity after seven challenging years with Ferrari, where he aims to avoid future regrets by giving his best effort every season.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season and Beyond
As Formula 1 prepares for major regulation changes in 2026, Leclerc views the upcoming season as a crucial opportunity for Ferrari to reassert its dominance. The Monégasque driver believes that with renewed focus and development, the team can return to winning races and contending for titles.
His drive remains as intense as ever, fueled by the desire to fulfill the promise embodied in his nickname and to reestablish Ferrari as a leading force in the sport.
Charles Leclerc interview for @TheAthletic ⬇️
✨ Embracing his status as "Il Predestinato."
💬 "I would love to be winning more."
📈 Entering his peak years, 2026 crucial
🤯 He still can't explain Hungary pole
😀 Why he remains "very, very happy" in lifehttps://t.co/vJaW9S2Zxx— Luke Smith (@LukeSmithF1) October 2, 2025
