Charles Leclerc has opened up about becoming a father with Alexandra Saint Mleux, revealing why he jokingly considers the new arrival his second experience of parenthood rather than his first. For the Ferrari driver, the reason is Leo, the couple’s long-haired miniature dachshund, who has become such an important part of their family that they already regard him as their first “child”.
The personal milestone continues an eventful 2026 away from Formula 1 for Charles Leclerc. The year began with his marriage to Alexandra Saint Mleux in Monaco, their home city, in an intimate ceremony attended by only a small group of guests. The couple travelled to the ceremony in an iconic vintage Ferrari, adding a distinctly Maranello touch to the occasion. Their Monaco wedding marked a major new chapter in their relationship.
Charles Leclerc explains why this feels like becoming a father twice
Although no official announcement has been made, the couple are expecting a baby who appears likely to arrive soon. Yet, judging by Charles Leclerc’s own words, the new arrival will not feel like their first child.
The explanation is Leo. Charles Leclerc and Alexandra Saint Mleux have long regarded their miniature long-haired dachshund as a member of the family in the fullest sense. Over the years, Leo has also become a social-media favourite and one of the most recognisable dogs around the Formula 1 paddock, particularly following the death last year of Roscoe, Lewis Hamilton’s beloved bulldog.
Leo also played a role in Charles Leclerc and Alexandra Saint Mleux’s wedding and has frequently been seen travelling around Formula 1 paddocks in Alexandra Saint Mleux’s arms. The Ferrari driver discussed his approaching “second” experience of parenthood in an interview with Harper’s Bazaar, making clear how excited he is about what lies ahead.
“It’s really special. I can’t wait. We already have a child, Leo, because we consider him that way, and it will be amazing to become a parent for the second time.”
The new chapter follows the couple’s previously reported preparations for welcoming their first baby together, adding another major personal milestone to Charles Leclerc’s 2026 season.
Family life set to change Charles Leclerc’s priorities
Life as a Formula 1 driver, combined with Charles Leclerc’s various business projects, is now set to undergo another change. Free time is already limited, and becoming a parent is likely to make his personal priorities even more important.
“Spending time with my wife, with Leo, with my family and my friends. That is probably the main thing I try to do when I have free time, because it doesn’t happen very often.”
Finding the right balance may become more complicated, but Charles Leclerc does not appear concerned about how his professional and personal responsibilities will coexist.
“The balance comes naturally. The priority remains the activity on track and everything that allows me to improve as a driver and as a team. Then, whatever is left, I dedicate to the projects I enjoy.”
Alexandra Saint Mleux follows Ferrari weekends from Monaco
For now, Charles Leclerc will continue his Formula 1 commitments without Alexandra Saint Mleux regularly alongside him at the circuit. She has recently preferred to remain at home in Monaco as the pregnancy progresses well.
“She follows everything from home. And she is doing well, which is the most important thing.”
Leo, meanwhile, remains closely associated with the Ferrari driver’s paddock life and family routine, a connection that has previously attracted attention when Charles Leclerc’s family presence during Formula 1 weekends became a subject of discussion. Now, however, the focus is firmly on a new stage of family life as Charles Leclerc and Alexandra Saint Mleux prepare for the arrival of their baby.
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