Ferrari-Level Contract With ‘Mega’ Pay Reportedly Prepared to Keep F1 Star Beyond 2026
A Formula 1 star could be in line for a huge new contract that would secure his future beyond the 2026 season, with reports suggesting the proposed deal could put him among the sport’s highest-paid drivers.
The development comes as teams continue to plan for the next phase of Formula 1 following the introduction of major technical regulations in 2026. Driver contracts have become increasingly valuable, with the leading teams keen to secure proven talent for the long term.
The reported agreement is being described as a “Ferrari-level” contract, highlighting the potential scale of the salary and bonuses involved. While the exact financial figures have not been officially confirmed, reports indicate that the package could include a substantial basic salary alongside performance-related incentives.
Formula 1’s biggest stars already command enormous salaries. Charles Leclerc, for example, recently signed a new multi-year extension with Ferrari. Sky Sports reported that the agreement keeps the Monaco driver with the Italian team until at least the end of the 2028 season.
Leclerc’s deal underlines the lengths top teams are prepared to go to retain their leading drivers. Other championship contenders are expected to adopt a similar approach as they look to establish stability under the sport’s new regulations.
The driver at the centre of the latest contract speculation is understood to be highly valued by his current team, with his performances making him a major asset heading into the future. A new agreement would remove uncertainty surrounding his position after 2026 and could potentially keep him at the team for several more seasons.
Financial details remain the subject of reports rather than official confirmation, meaning claims surrounding the size of the proposed package should be treated cautiously. However, the suggestion of a salary approaching the level commanded by the sport’s elite demonstrates how highly the driver is regarded.
The timing is also significant. With the 2026 season already underway, teams are increasingly assessing their long-term driver line-ups. Securing a star early can prevent rivals from making an approach and gives a team greater stability when developing a car around its lead driver.
Ferrari’s recent decision to extend Leclerc illustrates the importance of that strategy. The Italian outfit has committed to its star driver despite the intense pressure surrounding its recent performances, signalling its belief that continuity can help deliver future championship success.
For the driver involved in the latest reports, a contract of this magnitude would represent another major milestone in his Formula 1 career. It would also send a clear message that his team sees him as a central figure in its ambitions beyond the current regulation cycle.
With the 2026 campaign progressing and the driver market beginning to take shape, negotiations are likely to attract significant attention. If the reported agreement is eventually confirmed, the financial package could become one of the most eye-catching contracts on the Formula 1 grid.
For now, however, fans will have to wait for official confirmation before the reported “mega” deal becomes reality.
