Shock Hamilton’s retirement announcement as driver health…read more
In a surprising development ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, Ferrari has announced that Charles Leclerc will not be attending Thursday’s scheduled media activities at the Imola circuit due to health concerns. According to the official statement released by the team, the Monegasque driver is currently unwell and will be taking the necessary time to rest and recover away from the paddock. Although his condition is not described as severe, Ferrari remains cautiously hopeful that he will recover in time to participate in Friday’s practice sessions, which mark the official start of the race weekend.
Leclerc’s absence is notable given the current stage of the 2025 Formula 1 season. The Ferrari driver is presently ranked fifth in the Drivers’ Championship standings, having accumulated 58 points thus far. Despite demonstrating flashes of competitive pace, he has yet to secure a race win this season. His best performance to date was a third-place finish at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, a result that showcased his potential but also highlighted the ongoing struggle for consistent results and outright dominance. This has added pressure not only on Leclerc himself but also on Ferrari, which continues to aim for a return to the top step of the podium amid intense competition from rivals.
Missing Thursday’s media day may appear minor at first glance, but in the tightly wound world of Formula 1, every moment of preparation counts. Media day is not only a chance for drivers to engage with journalists and fans, but it also serves as a key opportunity to mentally settle into the race weekend. For Leclerc, sitting out this initial phase might disrupt his rhythm, especially if his recovery is not swift. Any lingering effects from his illness could compromise his ability to perform at his peak during Friday’s practice sessions, where teams gather crucial data and fine-tune car setups for qualifying and the race.
Ferrari has not indicated any need for a replacement driver at this time, signaling their belief that Leclerc’s condition will improve sufficiently by Friday. Nonetheless, the team will be monitoring his health closely to avoid any unnecessary risks. As the 2025 season progresses, each race presents an important chance to earn points, and Leclerc’s potential absence or impaired performance in Imola could prove costly in the long run if it hinders his championship momentum. Fans and the F1 community alike will be watching closely to see whether the Ferrari star can bounce back quickly and return to the track in full strength.
