Leclerc delighted with 'very important' new Sainz deal

Charles Leclerc says Ferrari extending Carlos Sainz's contract until the end of 2024 is "very important" as it provides the Scuderia with stability and confidence.

Ferrari announced Sainz's extended deal on Thursday at Imola and while the contract first and foremost benefits the Spaniard, it will also further strengthen the Italian outfit's driver line-up.

Leclerc offered his initial reaction to the news on Instagram on Thursday.

"2 more years with Mr. Sainz ! 2 more years of chess, Padel, golf and a bit of racing too 🏎 😁 Let’s go", joked the Monegasque who later elaborated on the positive significance of the pair racing together until at least the end of 2024.

• Read also: Sainz left 'laughing' at rumors of Ferrari contract conflict

"Carlos is a great guy, other than just a very good driver too, we have a very good relationship, we also work together very well," he commented.

"What is the most important is we also have the same feedback – we need the same things from the car and this is extremely important for the future of the team for us to both push in the same direction.

"This has been the case for the last year and a half and I think we are already seeing the benefits so having Carlos in the team for the next two years is great."

The current leader of the F1 Drivers' Championship underscored the importance of continuity, not only or his partnership with Sainz but more importantly for the Ferrari team as a whole.

"It’s very important I think, for many reasons," said the Monegasque.

"Obviously I know this as I signed a very long contract with Ferrari and to know you are in the same place for many years to come is great for the confidence, for feeling good mentally, and obviously being able to work in the long-term, which always has its benefits.

"We are a very strong driver line-up, we keep pushing each other race after race and it is great for the team and ourselves."

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