Formula 1 driver Charles Leclerc is set to play a pivotal role in the Paris 2024 Olympics opening events. The Monegasque native has been chosen as one of the local athletes to carry the Olympic torch through Monaco on June 18, marking a significant milestone not only in his career but also in the illustrious history of the Olympic Games.
Facilitated by the return of the Olympics to Paris, a century after its last occurrence in 1924, this year's torch relay is especially symbolic. Commencing its journey on April 16 in Olympia, Greece, the flame's passage through Monaco is anticipated to be a historic event. Leclerc will have the honor of passing the torch to skier Alexandra Coletti, continuing a chain that involves various local sports luminaries, culminating in a handover to Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco.
At only 26 years old and already a seasoned competitor in his seventh Formula 1 season, Charles Leclerc's involvement adds a modern twist to a deep-rooted tradition. Recently triumphing at the Monaco Grand Prix, he remains in top form with upgrades to his Scuderia machinery slated for this coming race weekend at the Spanish Grand Prix.
The 2024 Olympic Games offer a comprehensive celebration of sports, extending beyond Paris to 16 additional cities, including far-flung locations like Tahiti for surfing. Historic venues such as Stade Roland Garros and Champ de Mars will serve as arenas for this global spectacle, showcasing sports from tennis to beach volleyball.
Historically, though motorsports are not part of the Olympic sports roster, the worlds of Formula 1 and the Olympics have intersected memorably. Notable instances include Ferrari's feature in the 2006 Torino Winter Olympics and former Formula 1 driver Alex Zinardi clinching medals in hand cycling at the 2012 and 2016 Paralympics. Such participation underscores the thematic overlaps and mutual respect between different spheres of elite sports.
Radio Monaco revealed the news on x (formerly Twitter):
"We are still buzzing with his historic victory at the end of the Grand-Prix of Monaco and the driver of Formula 1 will have the honor tomorrow of carrying the Olympic flame during his visit to the Principality, from 2:15p.m."
As Monaco prepares to welcome the Olympic torch, Charles Leclerc's participation is a testament to his versatility and status as a sporting icon, bridging the gap between the adrenaline-pumped circuits of Formula 1 and the revered traditions of the Olympic Games. This juxtaposition not only celebrates Leclerc's achievements but also magnifies the enduring allure and unity of global sportsmanship as symbolized by the Olympic flame.
About the writer
Alex Harrington has been a journalist for 8 years, specialising in technology, automotive, and motorsport coverage for the likes of ... Read more
