Ferrari debutant Charles Leclerc says he retains the lessons he was taught by Jules Bianchi as he targets a career in F1.
Leclerc made his F1 debut for Haas during FP1 at the British Grand Prix before getting his first taste of Ferrari machinery on Tuesday during the in-season test. Leclerc was close to Bianchi – who died last year following a crash during the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix – and says he is trying to use the experience passed on by the Frenchman to help him impress.
“I knew him from when I was really, really young,” Leclerc said. “He was my godfather and he helped me with most of things in racing. Obviously now it’s hard without him because he always helped me, and I miss his help.
“He advised me really well in the past, and all his comments he gave me in the past I keep them in mind and try not to make the errors he told me not to do.”
Leclerc admitted his first day in the Ferrari was “special”, despite having already driven an F1 car on Friday.
“Yeah, it’s special, and I’m only 18, so it’s even more special. When I was six years old I was always looking at the red car on the track, so it’s unbelievable to be here, and I’m really thankful.”
And the GP3 championship leader says it has been good experience for him to be able to carry out contrasting programs for Haas and Ferrari.
“It’s two different things. In FP1 that was mostly for the team because they had a weekend after and I had to work for them and do as many kilometres for them as possible.
“Today was a long day so we could plan it a bit better, but both have been amazing. It’s still be good to get experience in two different Formula 1 cars. The more cars I try, the different ways I see of working, the more experience I get. It’s always good to try some things.”
REPORT: Alonso tops opening day of rain-hit Silverstone test
TIMES AND AS IT HAPPENED: Silverstone in-season test – Day 1
Silbermann says … Radio Ga Ga
2016 British Grand Prix – Driver ratings
Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter
Click Here: Tienda Necaxa