On a sunny afternoon in Monaco, Formula 1 driver Charles Leclerc traded his Ferrari SF-24 for a torch as he became the first torchbearer in the Principality’s leg of the Olympic Torch Relay. The event, which took place on June 18, 2024, saw Leclerc carry the flame through the streets of Monaco, starting at the statue of Juan Manuel Fangio in Port Hercule.
Leclerc, who recently secured a historic victory at the Monaco Grand Prix, was chosen as a torchbearer in recognition of his sporting achievements and his connection to the country. The event was attended by notable figures, including Princess Charlene and Prince Albert II of Monaco, as well as Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur and former F1 driver Nico Rosberg.
Charles Leclerc Lights Up Olympic Torch
“It’s a huge honour for me,” Leclerc said in a statement. “I’m very proud to represent Monaco and to be part of this Olympic tradition.”
Leclerc was joined by other Monegasque athletes in the torch relay, including tennis player Xiaoxin Yang and bobsleigh competitor Rudy Rinaldi. The torch eventually reached the hands of Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene, who will carry it on the next leg of its journey.
The Olympic Torch Relay is a tradition that dates back to ancient times, symbolizing the connection between the ancient and modern iterations of the games. This year’s relay began in Olympia, Greece, on April 16 and will make its way through several countries before reaching Paris for the opening ceremony on July 26.
Participation in Relay An Added Bliss To Win in Canada
Leclerc’s participation in the relay comes just days after his victory at the Canadian Grand Prix’s third practice session in Montreal. However, despite struggling with his SF-24’s setup, Leclerc managed to secure a podium finish, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier athlete.
The selection of athletes like Leclerc as torchbearers reflects a longstanding tradition of involving notable figures from various sports disciplines. It also echoes the participation of legends like Michel Platini in 1992 and Muhammad Ali in 1996.
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As the Olympic Torch continues its journey towards Paris, it serves as a reminder of the unity and sportsmanship that the games represent. Moreover, for Leclerc, it was a moment of pride and a chance to represent his country on a global stage.
“I’m very proud to represent Monaco and to be part of this Olympic tradition,” Leclerc said. “It’s an incredible experience to be part of something so much bigger than myself.”
