In a groundbreaking moment for Formula 1, Ferrari announced that Arthur Leclerc will join his older brother Charles on the grid for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, marking the first time in modern F1 history that siblings will represent the same team. Ferrari posted a picture of the brothers in matching overalls on X, captioned “history makers,” as they prepare for this unique milestone.
Arthur Leclerc steps in for Ferrari
Arthur, 24, replaces outgoing driver Carlos Sainz to fulfill Ferrari’s young driver requirements during the season finale. While Britain’s Oliver Bearman, Ferrari’s reserve driver, would typically fill this role, he is ineligible due to exceeding his maximum three appearances this season. Bearman drove Charles Leclerc’s car in practice at the Mexican Grand Prix and replaced an unwell Kevin Magnussen at Haas during the Brazilian GP.
Arthur Leclerc, a Ferrari development driver and former Formula 2 competitor, has been honing his skills in the team’s simulator at Maranello while competing in the Italian GT championship. His appearance in Abu Dhabi solidifies Ferrari’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
A historic sibling duo
While F1 has seen brothers compete before—most famously Michael and Ralf Schumacher—none have driven for the same team. The Leclerc brothers now join an elite club of siblings in Ferrari’s storied history, following Pedro and Ricardo Rodriguez, who both raced for the Scuderia, albeit at different times.
Charles, 27, is no stranger to the Ferrari spotlight, having been a key player in their championship pursuits. With Arthur now sharing the garage, Ferrari creates a moment of unity and celebration for the team and fans alike.
Ferrari’s championship fight and Sainz’s departure
The Abu Dhabi GP also represents a pivotal moment in Ferrari’s season, as the team battles McLaren for the constructors’ championship. Ferrari trails by just 21 points, setting the stage for a fierce finale under the Yas Marina lights.
Meanwhile, the race marks the end of Carlos Sainz’s tenure with the Scuderia as he makes way for seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton in 2025. Sainz departs after two years with Ferrari, during which he played a crucial role in maintaining their competitive edge.
Looking ahead: the Leclerc legacy
As Ferrari heads into the final race of the season, all eyes will be on the Leclerc brothers. For Arthur, it’s a chance to showcase his potential on the biggest stage, while for Charles, it’s an opportunity to solidify his leadership role as Ferrari prepares for its next chapter with Hamilton.
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will not only cap a thrilling F1 season but also celebrate a unique piece of Ferrari and Formula 1 history, as the Leclerc brothers bring their sibling synergy to the legendary Scuderia.