Charles Leclerc in free practice with Haas

Charles Leclerc will take his first steps in F1 by having a busy schedule within Haas F1 Team. The resident of the Ferrari Driver Academy, leader of the GP3 Series after the first event of the season in Barcelona (Spain), will pilot the VF-16 during several free practice sessions.

The 18-year-old Monegasque will replace Esteban Gutiérrez during the first free practice session at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone on July 8, before returning to the wheel of the No. 21 on July 22 at the Hungaroring (Hungary) , July 29 in Hockenheim (Germany), September 30 in Sepang (Malaysia) and November 25 in Abu Dhabi. A total of five test sessions await the former driver of the F3 European Championship who finished fourth in the Championship in 2015.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity to be able to drive an F1 car. I can never be grateful enough to Haas F1 Team and Esteban, commented Charles Leclerc. I am honored by the trust placed in me by Haas F1 Team and Ferrari. This is an important step towards achieving my ultimate goal of becoming an F1 driver.

“Charles Leclerc is closely followed by Ferrari and his records speak for him, added Günther Steiner, Team Principal of Haas F1 Team. We are delighted to give him this chance and help develop the next generation of F1 drivers. We also thank Esteban for sharing his car and serving as Charles' coach. »