"Leclerc, Leclerc, Lecl-eugh," goes the viral TikTok clip, capturing the magnetic effect Charles Leclerc has on the Tifosi—the term used for the devoted fans of Scuderia Ferrari—and the broader motorsport world. Dubbed "The Ferrari Prince," Leclerc draws legions of admirers every race weekend.
I witnessed this phenomenon firsthand when I interviewed him for the first time outside the Ferrari Hospitality Suite in Singapore, observing the throngs of fans eagerly awaiting outside the Paddock for a glimpse of the Monégasque star. For the past five years, he has been racing with the iconic team—one might say his destiny was always intertwined with Ferrari.
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For those unfamiliar with his story: Leclerc began his motorsport journey karting in 2005 before transitioning to single-seater cars in 2014. By 2016, he had joined the Ferrari Driver Academy, initially serving as a development driver for the team. In 2017, he told his father a small white lie, saying he had signed with Scuderia Ferrari—the dream for most, if not all, drivers. Two years on, in 2019, Leclerc realised that dream by officially signing with the racing team.
The first Monégasque to appear on the grid since 1994, Leclerc has become the face of the Italian racing brand, holding his own against former teammate and multiple-time world champion Sebastian Vettel, current teammate Carlos Sainz, and soon-to-be teammate, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton—all by the age of 27. More recently, he became the first Monégasque Formula One driver in 93 years to win his home race, as well as securing victory at the Italian Grand Prix.
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Off the track, he boasts over 16.5 million Instagram followers, carried the Olympic flame through the streets of Monaco, and became the first global ambassador for Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0%—an alcohol-free premium lager brewed with fine aromatic hops and Italian-grown Mais Nostrano for a dry yet refreshing taste, in partnership with Ferrari. To mark their collaboration, they’ve launched a highly coveted, limited-edition Tifosi Nastro Azzurro 0.0%, with just 2,024 uniquely numbered bottles available worldwide.
Ahead of the Singapore Grand Prix, the "Prince of Monaco"—a term of endearment from fans—sat down with ELLE Singapore to discuss the Marina Bay Circuit, the qualities that define a champion, navigating the highs and lows of life as a Formula One driver, working on new music, his favourite way to unwind when he's not racing, and what the next dream is after Monaco.
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What makes a champion?
Resilience and hard work are the two qualities most important for the job. I think they're the two most common traits you will find in the Paddock. We [the drivers] have all gone through difficult times, but we all continue to believe in it and work for what we all want: To be Formula One drivers, win races, and become world champions.
What makes the Marina Bay Circuit unique?
It's a very special circuit. It's one of my favourites because I love street circuits in general, but a city track at night makes it extra special. Physically, it's quite demanding due to the humidity and heat. We sweat a lot, losing a significant amount of water, which makes it difficult to maintain focus in the final laps. It's also one of the longest races, lasting up to two hours, which adds to the challenge. The unique nature of this night-time city circuit means there's no room for error. Overall, it makes for a very, very interesting weekend.
How do you find time for your love of music despite your busy schedule?
My connection with music lies in the fact that it allows me to completely focus on something other than racing. It helps me relax and shift my thoughts elsewhere—that’s how I first got into playing music. From there, I started posting videos on Instagram, and people seemed to like them, replaying my stories. So I thought, 'Why not release my own music to make it easier for everyone to enjoy?' I'm happy making music, and that’s what matters to me—I do it purely out of passion. If others enjoy it too, that’s just a bonus.
Any new music on the horizon?
I had a song in mind that I wanted to work on, so I started it. I already registered one earlier this year, and another idea came to me just yesterday, although it still needs some work. I’m fortunate that the hotel was kind enough to put a piano in my room, as I haven’t played one in two or three months. I just sit down, get inspired, record a video of it, and register it—sometimes just to remember it when I get back to Monaco. Once I’m home, I’ll try to finish and register the last part.
What would be your dream music collaboration?
I actually had a dream collaboration with Sofiane Pamart. We created a four-track EP called DREAMERS, which I really enjoyed, as he's one of the best pianists around. It was fascinating to work with Sofiane because I'm always creative and have a clear vision of where I want my music to go, but technically, I'm limited. So, most of the time, what I produce is quite different from the idea I have in my head. Sofiane, however, had the technique to bring it to life. I also really admire Hans Zimmer, though I think he's on such a high level that it might be hard to find common ground between me, the beginner, and him, the master. But who knows—maybe one day.
How do you bounce back from setbacks and get back into the right frame of mind?
In today’s world, with social media and the constant buzz around Formula One, you can be quickly elevated or brought down—often more than what the actual situation warrants. If I have a poor race weekend, people might say, 'Oh my god, it's the toughest period of Charles' career' and if I have a great race weekend, they'll say, 'Oh my god, Charles is having an amazing time, probably the best of his career.' As a driver and athlete, it’s crucial to remain emotionally steady, to step back from the perceptions, and to assess the situation objectively, without letting emotions or public opinion sway you. This approach helps manage the fluctuating highs and lows, which can change rapidly and don’t always reflect the true reality. It’s important to step back, analyse things on your own terms, and not be overly concerned with what others say.
Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0% is all about enjoying life without compromise. What are your favourite ways to unwind and enjoy life when you're not racing?
I think spending time with my family, friends, my girlfriend, and my dog is what I enjoy most. Formula One consumes a significant part of our lives—between the simulator, preparation, working at the factory, events, and media commitments, it all adds up. We travel a lot, and with the limited personal time we have, I like to spend it with loved ones and have a good time together—most often on my boat. It’s the perfect place for me to be alone, undisturbed, and enjoy complete privacy.
What kind of music do you listen to before a race?
If I'm very tense, maybe something calm—sometimes even my own music. If I need more energy, then something a bit more energising.
What dish would you pair with a cold glass of Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0%?
Well, pizza is my top choice (my favourite being a Margherita with prosciutto) because it embodies the values of Peroni—sharing a special moment with friends and enjoying the experience. However, I also love pasta, which pairs perfectly with Peroni Nastro Azzurro 0.0% as well.
You previously mentioned that your dream was to race in and win the Monaco Grand Prix. Now that you’ve achieved that, along with a win at Monza, what’s the next dream you have in mind?
Oh, to be the world champion. That’s it. Monaco and Monza were particularly important races for me, but now my sole target and goal is to win the world championship. I want to win as many races as possible along the way, starting this weekend here in Singapore, but the world title is my ultimate dream.
The Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix 2024 is happening from 20 to 22 September 2024 around the Marina Bay Street Circuit.
*This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.