Sacrificing 24 Hours of Sleep, Leclerc Found Unique Way to Honor Jules Bianchi’s Legacy

If you feel in F1 speed is everything, then you are wrong because there are moments that remind us of the human connections beyond the race. In F1, where every millisecond counts, one might wonder what could compel a driver to sacrifice a precious 24 hours of sleep. The answer lies in a profound bond that transcends the confines of the racetrack, a bond that Charles Leclerc shares with the late Jules Bianchi, a bond that goes beyond mere mentorship. It’s a story of a godfather and godson, forged not only through a shared love for racing but also through the echoes of enduring friendship. Jules Bianchi was not just a mentor to Charles Leclerc; he was his godfather. This unique relationship had its roots in the shared history of their families.

“I will be there,” Charles Leclerc declared on social media earlier this summer, and he kept his word. In a heartfelt tribute to Jules Bianchi, Leclerc participated in the Jules Bianchi Marathon Karting event at the Paul-Ricard circuit. This remarkable endurance challenge, spanning 42 hours, 19 minutes, and 50 seconds, was a fitting way for Leclerc to honor Bianchi’s memory and support the JB17 association. The concept of reviving the Jules Bianchi Marathon Karting event came to life during a conversation between Charles Leclerc and Philippe Bianchi, Jules’ father. Leclerc expressed his desire to see the event return as a tribute to Jules. Despite his hectic schedule, Leclerc made time to participate, even delaying his departure for the upcoming Singapore GP as the karting marathon held a special place in Jules Bianchi’s heart.

After a hiatus, the Jules Bianchi Marathon Karting event made a comeback at the Paul-Ricard circuit on September 8, 9, and 10. Leclerc, along with his brothers Lorenzo and Arthur, played a pivotal role in the JB17 Forever team, which unsurprisingly claimed victory in the marathon. His presence and active involvement in the event demonstrate his unwavering commitment to preserving Jules Bianchi’s legacy and supporting the JB17 association. Leclerc, slipping into kart No. 17 for a 60-minute relay stint from 2 a.m. to 3 a.m. He then returned to the track shortly before noon, racing against the clock before departing for Southeast Asia to resume his F1 duties. Charles Leclerc waved the flag as the race concluded, underscoring his deep connection to the event and his dedication to honoring Jules Bianchi’s memory.

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Charles Leclerc’s involvement, spurred by his desire to honor his godfather and friend, added a deeply personal touch to this remarkable event. Charles Leclerc’s unwavering commitment to the Jules Bianchi Marathon speaks volumes about the enduring bond between them and the impact Jules had on his life. Through this marathon, Jules Bianchi’s legacy lives on.

Jules Bianchi’s unfulfilled Ferrari dream

Reflecting on Jules Bianchi’s untimely demise, Leclerc expressed his belief that Bianchi deserved the Ferrari seat more than he did. He acknowledged Bianchi’s extraordinary talent and suggested that had fate not intervened, Bianchi might have achieved even greater success than he himself has. Bianchi’s exceptional performance in the 2014 Monaco GP, where he secured points for Marussia, remains a testament to his abilities.

Leclerc praised Bianchi’s talent, emphasizing that there was much more to come from the Frenchman. Bianchi had already shown promise with Marussia and had been on the radar for a future Ferrari seat. Leclerc shared that their career paths were remarkably similar, with both being mentored by the same management and making their way through the ranks of motorsport.

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Charles Leclerc’s tribute to Jules Bianchi not only honors their profound friendship but also highlights the unfulfilled potential of a driver who left an indelible mark on F1. In Leclerc’s words, it’s as if he’s carrying forward the legacy that Jules Bianchi would have embraced with the success he rightfully deserved.