Charles Leclerc disclosed the circumstances surrounding the revelation of his impending position as a Ferrari driver, and it unfolded via a prank. A graduate of the Ferrari Driver Academy, Charles Leclerc made a big impression in his rookie 12 months at Sauber in 2018 after clinching the Method 2 title, positioning himself as a possible substitute for Kimi Raikkonen within the subsequent season.
Upon receiving a name from then-team principal Maurizio Arrivabene, Charles Leclerc initially heard that he didn’t safe the seat, solely to obtain a immediate callback confirming his standing as a Ferrari driver.
Within the preliminary races, Charles Leclerc swiftly outpaced teammate Marcus Ericsson at Sauber, garnering consideration from Ferrari with 5 factors finishes in six races in midfield equipment. This included a notable P6 end in Baku, achieved in solely his fourth Method 1 race.
As the choice relating to Kimi Raikkonen’s future loomed in September of that 12 months, Charles Leclerc anxiously awaited the result, solely to expertise a fleeting, albeit merciless, prank earlier than lastly receiving the optimistic information.
Upon his promotion, Leclerc rapidly demonstrated his prowess, proving to be a formidable counterpart to Sebastian Vettel within the different automobile. This stellar efficiency earned him a exceptional five-year contract extension – the lengthiest ever awarded to a driver in Ferrari’s historical past. Noteworthy victories at Spa and Monza highlighted his debut season with the Scuderia.
Regardless of dealing with challenges comparable to underperforming equipment, strategic choices, and occasional driver errors, Leclerc maintains his standing as one of the esteemed drivers on the grid. Ongoing discussions relating to a brand new contract between Charles Leclerc and Ferrari are reportedly underway, as each his and Carlos Sainz’s present contracts are set to run out on the finish of 2024.
Purchase official Ferrari F1 merchandise!
Let different Scuderia Followers learn about us
