12 Years Ago, Charles Leclerc Held Bizarre Ferrari F1 Expectations: “…With Oompa Loompas Running Around”

Charles Leclerc is the face of Ferrari as the young Monegasque is spending his fourth year with the team. As things stand, Leclerc is arguably driving the most competitive Ferrari car so far in his career. Despite being one of, if not the most, competitive cars on the grid, Ferrari and Leclerc are suffering a hugely disappointing season so far.

The Monegasque was leading the championship with a massive lead and is now chasing down a massive lead. The unfortunate turn of events has followed a series of frustrating race results for Leclerc. At times, he has even expressed his frustration toward the team as well.

Although, if you were to go back in time, a young Leclerc could only dream of being a part of the Scuderia Ferrari.

Recalling his first visit to Maranello, Leclerc discloses he wasn’t allowed to go past the main doors of the factory. “So I sat in the car park for two hours,” he remembers.

And added, “trying to guess what it was like inside. I imagined Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, y’know? With Oompa Loompas running around.”

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The reality might not be as good as the fairytale, but the young Monegasque will still be proud of all he’s achieved so far. His first visit, when he was 11 or 12 years old, was owed to Jules Bianchi.

The late Frenchman was Leclerc’s godfather and is still his inspiration. Despite the recent troubles, Leclerc is making many people proud of his progress to the top of Formula 1. Forgetting the first half of the season, the Monegasque will hope for a stronger second half.

Charles Leclerc puts his faith in Ferrari

Despite his public outburst and criticism, the Ferrari man is an optimist. Talking about his and his team’s chances of winning either championship, Leclerc had an interesting take.

He pointed out, “As a team, looking at where we are coming from in the last two years, I do believe it’s an incredible step forward.”

But added, “On the other hand, obviously, there is another step we need to do and we are working on that but I’m confident that we will do it.”

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There is a lot of honesty in Leclerc’s statements, as the team has taken strides in comparison to the previous seasons. However, Ferrari needs a drastic change in mentality, and strategic planning to get close to winning the championship.