The presentation of the Medal of Honour of the National Council to Monaco’s Charles Leclerc by President Stéphane Valeri took place in the Council chamber on Saturday, January 18.

In front of elected officials, permanent members of the National Council, their families and the President of the Automobile Club of Monaco, Stéphane Valeri praised the human and sporting qualities of the young Monegasque driver Charles Leclerc, fourth in the 2019 Formula 1 World Championship, and twice winner of a Grand Prix in 2019 (Spa and Monza).

Charles was accompanied by Arthur, his younger brother, who has just joined the Ferrari Driver Academy) and his family.

Stéphane Valeri explained what had motivated this decoration: “This Medal of Honour could not have dreamed of a better recipient (…) A medal of honour to crown your results in an exceptional career, which, however, is only in its infancy.

“Statistically, the situation is miraculous. We are, hardly, 9,300 Monegasques in a population of more than 7,5 billion human beings. I let you calculate the chance of having among us a great champion of your stature! And isn’t it also extraordinary to have, on such a small territory, the most prestigious circuit in the world, for the best organized Grand Prix of the season? But it is true that nothing is impossible in the country of Grimaldi and Sainte Devote!

“We are all proud of you, of your journey, even if, no doubt, the best is yet to come, and we are proud of what you stand for. You embody these beautiful red and white values ​​to which we aspire for us and for our children. We are proud of you, and thanks to you, we are even more proud to be Monegasques, by nationality or by heart.

“Our best wishes for success and victories accompany you for this season which starts next March. Make us rejoice even more by allowing us to listen to our national anthem and see the red and white flag fly on circuits around the world.”

Very moved at the end of the speech, Charles Leclerc thanked the President, adding “it is an honour for me to receive this medal. I feel, with each race, the encouragement of the Principality and I am happy to wear the colours of Monaco.”

ORIGINAL SOURCE: National Council PHOTO: National Council President Stephane Valeri with Charles Leclerc (centre), and his brother Arthur