The Ferrari driver tightened the title race on Sunday by winning his home race with an impressive qualifying effort.
Realizing a boyhood ambition of winning his hometown Formula One race on the streets of Monte Carlo, Charles Leclerc made history on Sunday by winning the Monaco Grand Prix for the first time. Following two previous attempts to finish on the podium in Monaco from pole position, the Ferrari driver eventually turned a fantastic qualifying effort into his fifth Formula One triumph. Oscar Piastri of McLaren managed to secure the second position, while Carlos Sainz, Leclerc's Ferrari teammate, completed the podium in third place. What you should know after a unique day at the gem of racing.
The Monegasque driver won the race at his home track by leading from start to finish, proving that his third attempt at the pole was indeed lucky. Although Leclerc qualified first in both the 2021 and 2022 races, many will recall his inability to finish on the podium in Monaco. However, on Sunday, the 26-year-old appeared to have forgotten those experiences as he achieved the pinnacle of his career.
Leclerc's weekend was perfect as he blasted through qualifying on Saturday, easily leading the field and securing the best starting position for the grand prix. However, races aren't won on Saturdays, not even in Monaco. The pressure was on the Ferrari driver to avoid mishaps and navigate one of the most challenging F1 courses while maintaining his composure. And he carried it out precisely.
Just how much Leclerc had on his shoulders heading into the weekend was evident in the moments that followed the checkered flag. The entire Monte Carlo audience rose and cheered the local driver's gutsy attempt as he let out an intense and joyous scream from inside the vehicle. Then, when he talked about the significance of the race to both him and his late father (who passed away in 2017), he almost passed out during the interview.
Commentator Alex Jacques masterfully narrated the last lap to convey Leclerc's immense sense of satisfaction and gratitude for the win. "In 2017, Charles Leclerc lost his father," Jacques said. "And in his final days, he told his father a white lie – he’d made it to Formula One. That he’d signed the contract. It wasn’t true then, but his driving has made it true now. Now, look what he’s done with the opportunity," he said. "The grandstands he saw built as a kid growing up now rise for him. For the first time in 93 years, this fabled race is won by one of their own. Charles Leclerc wins the Monaco Grand Prix to achieve his dream!"
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