Leclerc Triumphs Over Monaco Pressure

Leclerc Conquers Monaco Emotions

26/05/2024

Charles Leclerc revealed his struggle with intense emotions as he neared his first Monaco Grand Prix victory, overcoming previous heartbreaking failures.

Charles Leclerc admitted he struggled to keep his emotions in check as he neared the finish line of the Monaco Grand Prix, with less than 5 kilometers to go. The Ferrari driver, securing his first home victory, shared his experience with Canal+.

“This race has been my dream since I was a child, and with everything that’s happened in recent years—being on pole twice and missing out on victory twice—it was hard to accept. The third time’s the charm, and it feels good,” said Leclerc.

“There have been very few moments in my career where I’ve struggled to manage my emotions during a race, if ever. Two laps from the finish, I came out of the tunnel, and I couldn’t see anything because I had tears in my eyes.”

“I had a lot to handle, with two laps remaining, but there were many emotions. It feels good to win at home. I’m fortunate to be able to call Monaco home. It’s a special Grand Prix, and growing up in this city makes this day exceptional.”

He explained that the pressure wasn’t too intense while driving: “There was quite a bit of tension, more than in the past, before getting into the car. But once I put on the helmet, I felt relaxed, it’s crazy. I even thought I needed to get into the car as soon as possible to stop feeling the tension.”

“I didn’t really feel the pressure. There was one occasion when Oscar tried to overtake in Turn 8, but I was managing the tires. After that, I sped up and always maintained a well-managed margin. I was confident about bringing the victory home, but you have to stay focused, and I succeeded,” Leclerc continued before proposing a celebration to his team principal, Fred Vasseur.

“In 2018, we made a bet that if we scored points, we would jump into the harbor, but we didn’t manage it. So, later, we’re going to jump!” Leclerc exclaimed. A proposal that his boss approved, as seen in the video below!

Leclerc Triumphs Over Monaco Pressure

Leclerc Triumphs Over Monaco Pressure. Leclerc Triumphs Over Monaco Pressure

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