Ferrari’s star driver Charles Leclerc has once again become a central topic in the Formula 1 paddock. His manager, Nicolas Todt, made striking comments ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix, openly questioning Ferrari’s ability to fight for the championship.
In an interview with the Singapore Straits Times, Todt emphasized that Leclerc’s career is entering a decisive phase:
Charles is one of the most talented drivers of his generation, alongside Max and a few others. But he’s no longer a young kid. He’s spent many seasons at Ferrari, and now we need a car capable of winning.
Ferrari’s Patience Running Thin
Todt stated that Ferrari’s current car is “good but not enough for a title fight,” adding that the upcoming 2026 regulations could be a key turning point:
We hope Ferrari becomes more competitive in the new era. Combined with Charles’s talent, that could finally bring the championship we’re aiming for.
Todt first discovered Leclerc back in 2009 during the French Karting Championship, when he was also managing the late Jules Bianchi. Since then, he has guided Leclerc all the way to Ferrari, with one ultimate goal remaining — a world championship in red.
Silence, Yet a Clear Message
Recent rumors have linked Leclerc with teams like Mercedes and Aston Martin, but Todt declined to comment on them directly. Still, his words hinted at growing restlessness:
Many drivers want to see how competitive their teams will be in the coming years. Their decisions to stay or leave will depend on that. I expect a very active driver market as we approach 2027.
Leclerc’s current contract with Ferrari runs through the end of 2026, but Todt’s remarks signal one thing clearly — time is running out for Ferrari to deliver a car worthy of its star driver.