Charles Leclerc‘s journey to Formula One began in karting, where he quickly made a name for himself as a talented driver. He progressed through the ranks of motorsport, competing in various junior categories before making his way to Formula Two in 2017, which he won in his rookie season. 

But that season, as much as it was filled with glitter after Leclerc bagged an F1 seat at Sauber for 2018, was filled with much more darkness than Leclerc could’ve dreamed of. In 2017, before the start of the Formula 2 Baku weekend, on 20th June, Leclerc’s father, Herve Leclerc, passed away at the age of 54. The driver credits his father for introducing him to motorsports and for his success. 

Before the race, Ferrari’s then-team principal, Maurizio Arrivabene, spoke with Leclerc and offered him the opportunity to stay at home following the death of his father. But Leclerc refused the offer.

Recalling the conversation, as quoted by the fanpage.it, Arrivabene said, “I said to him: ‘ Charles, what are you doing on this plane’?. And he replied ‘ I’m going to Baku with you. I have to do my homework and win. Once this is done, I can go home to bury my father”.

That weekend in Baku, Leclerc won the race. And the next year in Formula 1, the Monegasque grabbed his first points in Baku itself.

WATCH THIS STORY: Charles Leclerc Gets Into Heated Debated With Max Verstappen Fan Over Dinner Time Conversation

However, he later regretted performing his duty.

Charles Leclerc’s tributes to his father

Charles Leclerc’s journey to Formula One has been one of hard work, determination, and natural talent. He has quickly established himself as one of the sport’s brightest young stars and a future champion. 

Speaking about his father recently, Charles said, “But I don’t think I would have arrived in Formula 1 without him. His example was as fundamental to my growth as a pilot as much as as a person.”

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However, thinking about the time back then, Leclerc feels guilty about going racing in Azerbaijan. In a statement later, he confessed, “I wondered what he wanted me to do at the time and the answer was to run. And I didn’t think to stop. But I felt guilty for not thinking about my father’s death even though it was only for a couple of hours.”

READ MORE: After 13 Hours of Labor, Charles Leclerc Confesses to Finally Overcoming Off-Track Fear

The driver has demonstrated great potential over the years and has received praise from everyone in the sport’s fraternity. His composure and skills have convinced everyone of his future success.