Leclerc spotted in Monaco with rare £2.5m classic Ferrari

Ferrari F1 driver Charles Leclerc was filmed arriving in central Monaco behind the wheel of a classic Ferrari 275 GTB, a rare and valuable sports car from the 1960s estimated to be worth over £2.5 million. The sighting highlights Leclerc's deep personal connection to the Ferrari brand and his appreciation for automotive history beyond his modern F1 machinery.

Why it matters:

For an active Ferrari Formula 1 driver, choosing to drive a historic model from the brand's road car heritage is a powerful statement. It underscores a genuine passion for the marque's legacy, connecting the high-tech world of modern F1 with the analog, design-focused roots of the company. This move resonates with fans and reinforces the emotional bond between driver and manufacturer.

The details:

• The car is a Ferrari 275 GTB, produced in limited numbers between 1964 and 1966, with only approximately 200 units ever built.
• It features a classic Verde Pino (pine green) paint scheme and factory-option Borrani wire wheels.
• Technical Specs: The analog sports car is powered by a 3.3-litre Colombo V12 engine, producing roughly 280 horsepower, paired with a five-speed transaxle and independent rear suspension.
• Leclerc's Collection: This classic joins an impressive modern garage that includes models like the Ferrari SF90 Stradale, SF90 XX, 488 Pista, Daytona SP3, and 812 Competizione.
• Past Experience: This isn't Leclerc's first time in a 275 GTB; he drove a restored version at Ferrari's Fiorano test track in 2021, praising its pure driving feel and incredible sound.

Between the lines:

Leclerc's choice to drive such a valuable and delicate classic on public roads, rather than simply displaying it, speaks to his desire to actually experience the cars he owns. His 2021 comments at Fiorano reveal his reverence for the history and raw sensation of driving these older machines, contrasting it with the evolution seen in modern supercars and F1 cars. It reflects a driver who values the soul and story of an automobile, not just its performance metrics.

What's next:

While Leclerc's immediate focus remains on the F1 championship with Ferrari, his growing collection of road cars—spanning from the latest hypercars to iconic classics—paints a picture of a lifelong automotive enthusiast. His public appreciation for Ferrari's heritage strengthens his identity as a true 'Ferrarista' within the team, potentially deepening his long-term ties to Maranello beyond his racing career.