With only 20 drivers competing in F1, it’s no surprise to see them develop close bonds among themselves. However, some drivers get along better with a particular driver than with others, a point which Charles Leclerc displayed this weekend in Monza.

Following Pierre Gasly’s crash during sprint qualifying in the Italian Grand Prix, the Monegasque showed overwhelming concern for the Frenchman.

Charles Leclerc shows concern on team radio for Pierre Gasly following crash

During the pre-race press conference, Leclerc called Gasly one of his closest friends in the paddock. With the Ferrari driver hailing from Monaco and the AlphaTauri driver from the French city of Rouen, this admission doesn’t come as much of a surprise.

For today’s sprint race, Leclerc qualified in P8, two places behind Gasly. However, following contact with Daniel Ricciardo, the Frenchman lost a bit of his front wing. A few second later, Gasly couldn’t control running over that damaged wing, which sent him into the barriers at Turn 3. This left Leclerc worried, as he asked, “Is Pierre fine?” His race engineer then replied with the positive news of Gasly being okay.

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During the post-race interview, a replay of the Frenchman’s crash distracted the Monegasque as well. While summing up his sprint race, he said, “Okay, I was just watching the crash of Pierre.”

READ MORE: Why Is Charles Leclerc Called Lord Perceval?

Can Leclerc return to the podium in Monza this weekend?

Two years ago, Leclerc won the Italian Grand Prix in stunning fashion as he defended his position aggressively from Lewis Hamilton.

Although Ferrari had a dismal outing in Monza last year, they look a much improved outfit this year. Despite McLaren looking quicker today, Gasly’s victory last year showed anything can happen in the Italian Grand Prix.

WATCH STORY: Biggest Crashes From 2020 Featuring Leclerc, Vettel & Grosjean