Charles Leclerc closed out the 2025 Formula 1 season with a solid yet unsatisfying fourth-place finish at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, capping a campaign that offered glimpses of promise but no victories for Ferrari.
Leclerc started strongly at Yas Marina, overtaking George Russell to slot into fourth and momentarily putting pressure on championship contender Lando Norris. The McLaren driver needed a podium to secure the title, and Leclerc’s presence briefly complicated those plans. However, a failed undercut attempt allowed Norris to pull clear, leaving Leclerc to battle in isolation for the remainder of the race. Despite closing the gap at times, he never regained a realistic shot at the podium.
“I gave it everything and our team executed the race perfectly. Unfortunately, P4 was all there was in it for us today,” Leclerc said. “I really wanted to finish the season on a high, bringing home a podium for everyone. I was close to Lando at a few moments, but it wasn’t enough.”
The season as a whole proved frustrating for the Monegasque driver. Ferrari ended 2025 without a single Grand Prix win, while Leclerc secured just one pole and seven podium finishes, ultimately placing fifth in the Drivers’ Championship. He admitted the disappointment of a winless season weighed heavily once the calendar had closed.
“During the season, you try to stay positive and motivated,” Leclerc reflected. “But when it ends, the disappointment hits. I just need a few weeks to recharge and get ready for next year. At least we finish on a slightly more positive note.”
Ferrari’s overall performance was inconsistent, leaving the team fourth in the Constructors’ standings. The Scuderia has already shifted focus to its 2026 car, hoping to convert the lessons and resources of 2025 into a strong championship challenge next season.
“The season has been very tough, true,” Leclerc added. “But there’s a lot of motivation. We see a big opportunity next year, and it’s up to us to take it. I hope Ferrari will finally get back on top.”
Leclerc can draw some satisfaction from outperforming his new teammate Lewis Hamilton, finishing the year with 86 more points as both drivers prepare for the dawn of a new era in Formula 1.
