Charles Leclerc pulled off an "unforgettable" surprise for his older brother, Lorenzo, arranging a drive in his 2019 Ferrari Formula 1 car at Paul Ricard. The plan was kept completely secret until the last moment, turning what Lorenzo thought was a karting day into a thrilling F1 experience.
Why it matters:
This unique family moment offered a rare glimpse into the personal side of an F1 star, highlighting Charles's thoughtful gesture and his brother's unexpected F1 debut. It was a deeply personal event, showcasing the strong bond within the Leclerc family, shared by Charles and Arthur.
The big picture:
Charles meticulously planned the surprise, ensuring Lorenzo had no idea he'd be driving an F1 car. "I didn't want him to know that he would drive my Formula 1 car, otherwise he wouldn't have slept the night before," Charles explained. Lorenzo, who has a background in karting, impressed Charles with his speed and comfort in the single-seater. The experience was described as "very, very special" and an "unforgettable day for him, but also for the whole family."
What's next:
With the summer break concluded, the Formula 1 season resumes with the Dutch Grand Prix. Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur expressed confidence in both Charles Leclerc and the team's readiness. "We want to maintain the positive momentum built up over the past few races," Vasseur stated, emphasizing the importance of qualifying at Zandvoort due to the track's challenging overtaking opportunities. The team aims to put Leclerc in the best possible position to achieve strong results as the season's crucial final phase begins.