On the tenth anniversary of Jules Bianchi’s tragic passing, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc opens up about the deep bond he shared with his close friend and godfather. Bianchi, a rising star in Formula 1, left an indelible mark not only as a driver but also as a person who inspired those around him—none more so than Leclerc.

Beyond the Track: Childhood Memories and Family Bonds

Leclerc’s earliest memories of Bianchi aren’t from the racetrack but from their intertwined family lives in Monaco. With Bianchi being eight years older, he was initially closer to Leclerc’s older brother, yet their shared experiences soon bridged the age gap:

• Family Ties: The Bianchi and Leclerc families were, and remain, extremely close, often spending time together both at home and at the karting track.
• Early Karting Adventures: Leclerc recalls sneaking onto the rental kart track with Bianchi and his brother—experiences that fostered his own competitive spirit and love for racing.
• Personal Moments: From watching his first horror movie with Bianchi to late-night antics after the karting tracks closed, these formative years laid the groundwork for their enduring friendship.

The Drive to Succeed: Competitiveness and Determination

Bianchi’s relentless pursuit of excellence on and off the circuit set him apart. Leclerc highlights the traits that made Bianchi exceptional:

• Unmatched Competitiveness: Whether racing karts or playing simple games at home, Bianchi’s desire to win was legendary.
• Dedication to Improvement: If Bianchi struggled at something, he would train daily until he mastered it—once even improving so much at squash that he played against a world top-20 player.
• Never Giving Up: Bianchi’s dogged determination and refusal to accept defeat continue to inspire Leclerc and the wider F1 community.

Jules Bianchi’s Lasting Influence on Formula 1

Though Bianchi never had the chance to compete with a top team, his talent was widely recognized. Leclerc hopes that Bianchi will be remembered not only as a gifted racer but also as a kind and generous individual who embodied the values of sportsmanship and perseverance.

Leclerc’s reflections underscore the importance of friendship, family, and resilience in motorsport—qualities that continue to resonate throughout the paddock today. For more insights on F1 relationships and the human side of racing, check out our features on Mick Schumacher’s F1 Journey and F1’s Rising Stars.

Remembering Jules Bianchi: More Than Just a Driver

Bianchi’s legacy lives on, not only through his on-track achievements but also through the lasting friendships and inspiration he provided to the next generation of F1 talent. As Leclerc continues his own journey with Ferrari, he carries with him the lessons and memories from a friendship that shaped his life.

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