Xavi Marcos was Charles Leclerc’s race engineer from his arrival in 2019 until 2024. He got to know the Monegasque, his character, his abilities, and his working methods. Now, Xavi has completely detached himself from Ferrari’s F1 project, but his heart remains in Maranello.
There were many criticisms from Ferrari fans and others toward Xavi Marcos. However, the Spaniard always had a good working relationship with Charles Leclerc, at least according to his own words.
“I had a lot of fun with him; we started together at Ferrari, and I respect him a lot. As a person, he is really simple, polite, and has always treated me well.” What Xavi particularly appreciated about the Monegasque was his humility despite the significant position he holds. “You know, when you’re young, famous, and in Ferrari, it’s easy to change. He hasn’t, and that’s admirable.”
Xavi Marcos left his position as Charles Leclerc’s race engineer at the beginning of May. Just a few weeks later, the Monegasque secured his first victory of the season at home. It was on the streets of the Principality that, two years earlier, Charles Leclerc had one of his worst nightmares in his home GP due to a strategy error that cost him the race.
Despite many disappointments during the time Xavi worked closely with Charles Leclerc, the two have not broken their bond. “We have maintained a good relationship so far; we talk a lot. I care about him, and he knows that I am and will always be available for anything he needs.”
“When you start working at Ferrari, it’s just a normal job, like any other. Then you get to the track, you’re in the garage, and everything is red—you start feeling like part of history. You’re in the team with the most history that exists. It’s a huge responsibility, with the fans, and you face it by doing your best. It’s special; Ferrari will always be part of my life. Before, it wasn’t there, but now it is and always will be in my heart. We have done and achieved a lot together, I have learned so much, and I will be forever grateful.” – Xavi Marcos continued.
Regarding the Monegasque driver, the former Ferrari race engineer added: “His strength is his ability to immediately adapt to the car he has and to clearly communicate everything that happens while driving. He pushes for setup changes a lot, even beyond normal limits or what the engineers suggest. As a technician, it’s fun because you can think outside the box. He has grown a lot in racecraft, he’s strong in tire management, and for me, he’s solid in every aspect. He is ready to become truly great.”
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