Leclerc Urges Gasly: 'You're Next!' After Announcing His Own Engagement

Charles Leclerc recently announced his engagement to longtime partner Alexandra Saint Mleux, capping off a "special week" for the Ferrari driver. Now, he's turning his playful attention to close friend and Alpine driver Pierre Gasly, publicly challenging him to take the next big step in his own relationship.

Why it matters:

• This personal milestone for Leclerc offers a rare glimpse into the human side of F1 drivers, showcasing their friendships and lives beyond the track.
• It highlights the support system crucial for athletes, as Leclerc emphasizes his fiancée's role in managing the highs and lows of his demanding career.
• The playful interaction between Leclerc and Gasly underscores the camaraderie among some drivers, adding a personal touch to the typically competitive F1 environment.

The Details:

• Engagement Announcement: Leclerc shared his engagement to Alexandra Saint Mleux on social media earlier this week, posting photos with his fiancée and their dog, Leo.
• Emotional Week: He described the moment as "very, very happy" and "full of emotions," calling it a special step for any individual.
• Fiancée's Support: Leclerc praised Saint Mleux for her "incredibly engaged" support throughout his Formula 1 career, acknowledging her as an essential part of his life and career, helping him navigate the sport's challenges.
• Challenging Gasly: During the FIA press conference in Sao Paulo, Leclerc playfully put pressure on Pierre Gasly, urging his karting-era friend, "You're next!" when asked which driver should get engaged next. Gasly, sitting beside him, simply smiled in response.

The Big Picture:

Leclerc's personal joy comes as he also maintains a focus on his professional performance. Heading into the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, he carries momentum from two consecutive podium finishes, including a second place in Mexico. However, he remains grounded regarding Ferrari's prospects in Brazil.

What's next:

• Leclerc emphasized a "neutral" approach to the Sao Paulo Grand Prix, cautioning against getting carried away by recent positive results from Mexico and Austin.
• He stressed the importance of "perfect execution" from Friday to Sunday, especially given the unpredictable conditions often seen in Brazil.
• Leclerc remains realistic about Ferrari's pace, stating, "We don't have the pace of McLaren or Red Bull," and acknowledging Mercedes' fluctuating performance, indicating that Ferrari's focus will be on maximizing their own efforts.