Challenges in the Life of Charles Leclerc in a Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Charles Leclerc's life and career.

Charles Leclerc is a Monégasque Formula One racing driver currently competing for Ferrari. He achieved second place in the Formula One World Drivers' Championship in 2022. Over his eight seasons in Formula One, Leclerc has secured eight Grand Prix victories, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the sport.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles

1980: Lowest Since 1980

In 2020, Ferrari finished sixth in the World Constructors' Championship—their lowest since 1980.

2017: FIA Formula 2 Season

In 2017, Charles Leclerc progressed to FIA Formula 2 with Prema, taking pole position and winning his maiden F2 victory at Sakhir. He also experienced challenges at his home round in Monte Carlo. Dedicated his pole in Baku to his recently deceased father.

2018: Full-time Driver for Sauber and First Points in Formula One

In 2018, Charles Leclerc signed for Sauber as a full-time driver. At the Australian Grand Prix, he became the first Monégasque driver to compete in Formula One since 1994. He finished thirteenth on debut. At the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Leclerc became the first Monégasque driver to score points in Formula One since 1950, finishing sixth. Throughout the season, he experienced highs and lows, including a brake failure at his home Grand Prix in Monaco and several points finishes.

2019: Battles with Max Verstappen in 2019

In 2019, Charles Leclerc battled with Max Verstappen, adjusting his aggression after the Austrian Grand Prix. He then beat Verstappen in a hard-fought contest for third, described as a thrilling fight by Vijay Pattni of Top Gear. Leclerc also defended his lead at the Italian Grand Prix from Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas.

2019: Signing with Ferrari and Maiden Pole Position

In 2019, Charles Leclerc signed for Ferrari, partnering with Sebastian Vettel. At the Bahrain Grand Prix, he secured his maiden pole position, becoming the second-youngest polesitter in Formula One history, before an engine issue cost him the victory. He had other good results, including podiums and pole positions.

2019: Penalized for Collision in 2019

In 2019, Charles Leclerc was penalised for causing a collision with Verstappen at the Japanese Grand Prix.

2020: Winless Season for Ferrari

2020 was a winless season for Charles Leclerc and Ferrari.

2020: COVID-19 Pandemic Impact and Season Performance

In 2020, the Formula 1 season was delayed and shortened due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Charles Leclerc, driving for Ferrari, experienced a mix of challenges and successes. He secured a podium at the Austrian Grand Prix and faced controversy over alleged COVID-19 safety protocol breaches and his stance on taking the knee during pre-race ceremonies. His season included notable performances, reliability issues, and collisions, ultimately finishing eighth in the standings.

2020: Criticism for Race-Ending Mistakes in 2020

Throughout his early seasons in Formula One, Charles Leclerc was criticised for race-ending mistakes, particularly at the 2020 Italian and Sakhir Grands Prix.

2021: Another Winless Season

In 2021, Charles Leclerc experienced another winless season with Ferrari.

2021: Partnered with Carlos Sainz Jr. and Season Performance

In 2021, Charles Leclerc was partnered by Carlos Sainz Jr. at Ferrari. He secured a pole position at his home Grand Prix in Monaco but was unable to start the race due to a drive shaft issue. At the British Grand Prix, he claimed his sole podium of the season with a second-place finish. Ultimately, Leclerc finished seventh in the World Drivers' Championship, marking the first time he had been outscored by a teammate in his formula racing career.

2022: Victory and Challenges in the 2022 Season

In 2022, Charles Leclerc started the season strong, winning the Bahrain Grand Prix. He extended his championship lead with a dominant victory at the Australian Grand Prix. However, the season brought challenges, including retirements due to power unit failures and strategic errors. Despite pole positions, Leclerc faced difficulties, ultimately impacting his championship standings.

2023: Mixed Results and Pole Positions in 2023 Season

In 2023, Charles Leclerc experienced a season of mixed results. Ferrari faced challenges with race pace and tyre management early in the season. Leclerc secured pole positions in Bahrain, Azerbaijan, Belgium, the United States and Mexico City. Despite these successes, he faced retirements and grid penalties. He finished the season fifth in the World Drivers' Championship, achieving six podiums.

2025: Partnership with Lewis Hamilton in 2025 and Performance Challenges

In 2025, Charles Leclerc is partnered with Lewis Hamilton. He faced strategic errors and disqualifications, and performance concerns, stating he "[could not] accept the situation [Ferrari were] in". However, he secured podium finishes in Saudi Arabia and Monaco.