Speaking to French nationwide daily newspaper L’Équipe, Prince Albert II discussed about Charles Leclerc and his importance for Monaco:
Charles Leclerc’s SF90 symbolises one of the most beautiful international success from a Monégasque right?
Prince Albert II: “In modern times, this is true! Charles’s two victories in 2019 are quite remarkable achievements and part of our heritage now. It’s great that Charles thought of entrusting me his car [SF90], which is already mythical for us in Monaco. It is a loan. He can take it back whenever he wants but I hope he will let us keep it for a while. Pride. It’s a nice gesture that touched me a lot.”
Back in 2019 you said you wanted a Ferrari helmet from him. Now you got his car, even if it’s a loan. What about the helmet?
Prince Albert II (laughs): “Maybe one day. He must please many people. He hasn’t forgotten. I have one from his first season with Alfa Romeo.”
How did you feel about the two wins of Charles Leclerc in 2019?
Prince Albert II: “For Spa, I was with my family at Roc Agel. I used to watch the Grand Prix races with a distracted eye. I didn’t stay in front of my screen for two hours. In 2019, I tried not to miss any. For Monza, I was at the Modern Pentathlon World Championship in Budapest and watched the race in the official lounge with the pentathlon community. We were in between events and everyone around me – maybe to please me – were cheering for Charles.”
Are you allowed to show your emotions in public?
Prince Albert II: “Of course! Even if I did not run three laps around the field with my shirt off (laughs). At the very least, I have raised my arms [in joy].”
Is Charles known as a Monégasque now?
Prince Albert II: “I hope so! Everyone likes champions and try to monopolise their successes. Charles Leclerc made his first steps in both France and Italy, but his colours are red and white, and not only the Ferrari red.”
2020 has been difficult for Charles. Are people in Monaco less excited now?
Prince Albert II: “We are talking about him a little less but I still see the hope in people’s eyes to see him do well.
He has put in some almost miraculous performances in 2020. Even if sometimes he made mistakes because of enthusiasm. That’s the enthusiasm, the youth. We don’t blame him. You have to go through it, it’s part of gaining experience. Everyone understood that his F1 car is not as good as one would expect from a Ferrari. This year it’s been a great weekend, it was a great atmosphere, but sadly what happened to Charles is really a shame. I think he has a “revenge” to take. We are expecting him stronger next year and in the years after.”
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