Charles Leclerc has admitted it feels “strange” to be the second most experienced driver in Ferrari’s history.
The Monegasque has made 154 grand prix appearances for the Italian outfit since joining the team in 2019.
Prior to his promotion, Leclerc was part of Ferrari’s junior programme for several years, enjoying success across the junior single-seater ladder.
Leclerc now trails only Michael Schumacher (180) for the most grands prix with Ferrari - a mark he is set to surpass next year, should he remain with the team.
When it was put to him that he is now second on the list, Leclerc told media including RacingNews365: “It’s strange.
“I still feel very young, and I remember my first year in Ferrari just like yesterday, but it’s special.
“I love the team. I’ve grown up in this team even before I was a Formula 1 driver for Ferrari.
“I was in the Ferrari Driver Academy, so they saw me grow up and not only as a driver, but also as a person, so it’s a very special place to drive for.”
However, Leclerc insisted he cares little for how many race entries he has with the team, insisting his primary focus is on winning a title.
“But I wouldn’t love to be remembered as the most experienced driver of Ferrari, I would love to be remembered as a world champion for Ferrari and this is still to be done,” he said.
“That’s where my focus is at. I didn’t really know about this stat, actually.
“I’m not really looking forward to becoming the first, but I just want to win a world championship.
“That’s what I’m trying and working for every day and I hope that this day will come.”
Originally published by RacingNews365 —
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