The latest speculation surrounding Ferrari suggests the decision to promote Charles Leclerc into the seat of Kimi Raikkonen is “as good as done”.
Italy’s La Gazzetta Dello Sport is reporting a two-year race contract has been agreed with the current Sauber driver, who continues to impress in his rookie year with the Swiss team.
Though some are questioning the truth of the story, given the Monegasque already has a contract with the Italian team as part of their young driver program, the BBC is also convinced the move is all but guaranteed.
“The move comes after an impressive start to Leclerc’s F1 career this year with Sauber, including points finishes in four of the last five races,” wrote their reporter Andrew Benson.
“If the deal is confirmed, it would mean the end of 2007 champion Kimi Raikkonen’s five-year stay at Ferrari.”
The Italian media report suggests a salary of 5m Euros is in place for the 20-year-old, for whom the promotion would be a change in approach from the Scuderia who traditionally favour older, more experienced drivers.
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A new twist on the story did the round in Austria on Friday, suggesting Leclerc could move to Ferrari as soon as the Belgian Grand Prix in August, but his team boss at Sauber, Fred Vasseur, was quick to deny.
“We have a contract with Charles until the end of the season and have not talked about the future yet,” said the former Renault chief.
“I can understand the rumours in the press, but they have nothing to do with reality.”
