F1 News: Charles Leclerc Pays Emotional Tribute To Jules Bianchi With Japanese GP Helmet

Charles Leclerc has paid tribute to his late godfather Jules Bianchi who tragically passed away 10 years ago.

Scuderia Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc of Monaco qualified first at Circuit of Americas on Friday / Aaron E. Martinez/American-Statesman /

In a heartfelt homage at the Japanese Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc is sporting a special helmet dedicated to his late godfather, Jules Bianchi. The tribute marks a decade since the tragic loss of Bianchi.

Key Takeaways:

• Charles Leclerc unveiled a commemorative helmet in honour of Jules Bianchi at the Japanese Grand Prix, marking 10 years since Bianchi's tragic passing.
• The helmet symbolises Leclerc's deep personal connection with Bianchi, who was not only a mentor and godfather but also played a crucial role in his early career.
• Bianchi's death in 2015, following an accident at Suzuka, marked him as the first F1 driver to pass away from race-related injuries since Ayrton Senna in 1994.

Oct 21, 2023; Austin, Texas, USA; Charles Leclerc of Ferrari prepares for the Sprint Race of the / Erich Schlegel-USA TODAY Sports

Monegasque Formula 1 driver Charles Leclerc has taken to the Suzuka circuit with a helmet bearing a poignant tribute to Jules Bianchi, his godfather and an influential figure in his life and career. The tribute comes a decade after Bianchi's untimely death, following an accident at the same venue, which deeply impacted the motorsport community.

In a moving social media post, Leclerc shared his sentiments, stating:

“A special helmet in memory of a very special person for me.

"10 years this year since we have lost Jules here in Japan.

"So many memories together that I’ll never ever forget.

"I miss you and I’ll do everything to bring that helmet on the top step of the podium on Sunday.”

A special helmet in memory of a very special person for me. ❤️
10 years this year since we have lost Jules here in Japan.
So many memories together that I’ll never ever forget.
I miss you and I’ll do everything to bring that helmet on the top step of the podium on Sunday. 🤍 pic.twitter.com/aT7QVbtedJ

— Charles Leclerc (@Charles_Leclerc) April 4, 2024

The significance of Bianchi in Leclerc's life extends beyond their familial bond. Bianchi was instrumental in shaping Leclerc's early career, advocating for his talent to influential figures within the sport, such as Jean Todt.

This is not the first time Leclerc has honoured Bianchi through his helmet design. In 2019, at the Monaco Grand Prix, Leclerc wore a helmet that featured designs commemorating both Bianchi and his own father, Herve.

Bianchi's death on 17 July 2015, at the age of 25, was a sombre milestone in Formula 1, marking him as the first driver since Ayrton Senna in 1994 to pass away from injuries sustained during a Grand Prix.