Charles Leclerc might have played pivotal role in Ferrari ‘backtracking’ over Fred Vasseur contract decision

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Just a few weeks ago, it felt like Fred Vasseur’s time as Ferrari boss might be coming to an end following a tough run of results.

As we approach the Hungarian Grand Prix, they remain the only team in the top four of the constructors’ championship without a win in 2025, yet somehow they’re in second place.

Their recent saviour has been Charles Leclerc, armed with new upgrades which have led him to four podiums in six races.

At the Belgian Grand Prix, he managed to impressively hold off reigning champion Max Verstappen for the entire race to earn third. Team boss Fred Vasseur would have been very pleased with his performance.

After the event, Leclerc will be delighted with Hamilton’s words after his teammate complimented the job he has done for the team recently.

However, despite their progress, Leclerc fears ‘a lot of work’ at Ferrari and is aware that they cannot afford to relax any time soon.

READ MORE: Charles Leclerc admits he must take an ‘extreme’ risk even with Ferrari’s Belgian Grand Prix upgrade

Charles Leclerc’s Ferrari performances may have contributed to Fred Vasseur ‘backtracking’

Leclerc hinted at an ‘incredibly difficult’ race, but might have been surprised at the outcome. Drying conditions seemed to suit his car better than battling through torrential rain.

And another trophy being brought back to Maranello only strengthens the case for his boss, Vasseur, to be handed a contract extension.

After the Canadian Grand Prix, he was the subject of intense speculation, but Leclerc’s recent results seemed to have settled any fears. Journalist Ralf Bach has noticed a ‘backtracking’ from Ferrari.

“Let’s start with the updates. They were successful the first time, and I think they will be even more successful in Hungary at the next race, as far as I’m concerned,” he said.

“I think there’s been a backtracking from the leadership, and I think he’ll stay [Vasseur]. Which is also sensible, as I have always said, he hasn’t been there long enough to prove that he can really build a successful team in the long term.

“Then you won’t take his job back after [so many] years. Next year, when there are new regulations with new cars and new engines, he will be more in demand.”

READ MORE: F1 paddock insider reveals ‘twist in the tale’ for 2026 regulations after Charles Leclerc’s damning complaints

Why 2026 is the best time to judge Fred Vasseur’s job at Ferrari

Vasseur became Ferrari’s team principal back in January 2023, inheriting a car that went on to struggle a bit that year.

In 2024, things improved, and they nearly ended their title drought, but were beaten to the constructors’ crown by McLaren. They were 14 points short.

However, a gamble with the SF25’s concept over the winter has not paid off, and they have been left searching for answers all season long.

Despite their performance, Vasseur joined in the middle of a ruleset. It only feels fair to judge him after seeing what he can do from a fresh start. What has he built from his own foundations in 2026?

If Ferrari fail next year, then not only Hamilton could be riding off into the distance, but Vasseur and maybe even Leclerc too. There’s a lot at stake.