everything has changed ➺ charles leclerc

twenty-four - charles

– charles

AS A FERRARI DRIVER, THE WEEKEND OF THE ITALIAN GRAND PRIX IN MONZA IS always intense. The pressure for the team is at an all time high on our home turf, especially with both Mick and I being contenders for the World Driver's Championship. The tension in the air is thick, and the weight of expectations bears down on our shoulders.

I wake up on race day, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. The events of the previous days replay in my mind, the intense practice sessions, the qualifying battles, and the strategic discussions with the team. It all boils down to this moment, the Grand Prix that could potentially shape the championship standings.

In the bustling atmosphere of the Ferrari garage, the air is thick with anticipation and focused energy. Mechanics and engineers move with purpose, fine-tuning the sleek red machines that will take on the Monza circuit. The deafening sound of revving engines fills the air, harmonizing with the buzz of conversations and the clatter of tools.

I stand beside my car, adorned in my race suit, feeling the hum of excitement running through my veins. My race engineer approaches, armed with a tablet displaying data and insights that will guide our strategy.

I nod, absorbing the information and trusting in the expertise of the team. The mechanics work diligently, checking every component, ensuring that the car is finely tuned for the challenges that lie ahead. I take a moment to appreciate their dedication, their unwavering commitment to perfection.

As the final minutes tick down, I step into the cockpit, settling into the familiar embrace of the racing seat. The belts are tightened, securing me in place, and the steering wheel is adjusted to fit my grip perfectly. The team surrounds the car, giving it one last inspection, making sure that every detail is meticulously in place.

My race engineer leans in, his voice calm and steady. "Remember, Charles, focus on your race. We've done our homework, and we're ready for this. You've got the speed, the skill, and the support of the entire team."

A surge of determination courses through me, fueling my desire to deliver a stellar performance. I take a deep breath, centering myself, finding that inner calm amidst the chaos of the moment. The noise around me fades into the background as I visualize the race, each turn, each overtaking maneuver.

The garage doors slowly open, revealing the bright sunlight and the eager faces of the fans awaiting the spectacle that is about to unfold. I glance at the Prancing Horse emblem on my car, a symbol of power, heritage, and the passion that drives us all.

As the car roars to life, the sound resonates in my chest, a reminder of the immense power at my command. I give a nod to my engineer, a silent acknowledgment of our shared purpose. The mechanics step back, and I maneuver the car out of the garage, ready to face the challenges of the Monza circuit.

The crowd erupts in cheers as I make my way to the starting grid, soaking in the energy and support. The adrenaline courses through me, heightening my senses, sharpening my focus. I glance at the faces in the crowd, searching for familiar ones, knowing that their presence, even from afar, will fuel my determination.

In the final moments before the race, I close my eyes briefly, taking a moment of solitude, a moment to connect with the immense responsibility and privilege that comes with being a Ferrari driver. I feel the weight of expectations, but I also embrace the opportunity to showcase the excellence and passion that the team embodies.

As the call to the grid echoes through the air, I open my eyes, a fire burning within me. The preparations are complete, the stage is set. It's time to unleash the full potential of the Prancing Horse and chase victory on the hallowed grounds of Monza.