Charles Leclerc, Scuderia Ferrari’s star driver, kicked off a unique 42-hour karting marathon at the Circuit Paul Ricard in Le Castellet, honouring his late friend and mentor Jules Bianchi. The event, created over a decade ago by Philippe Bianchi, Jules’ father, serves as a heartfelt tribute to the young French driver who tragically passed away in 2015, following a crash at the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix.
Leclerc, who has often spoken of Bianchi as his sporting godfather, was visibly moved as he flagged off the race on Friday evening. “Jules was not just a mentor but a close friend,” Leclerc said, reflecting on their shared journey in motorsport. The karting marathon has attracted 32 teams and 400 drivers, including Leclerc’s fellow racers and personalities such as actor Tomer Sisley, Formula 2 driver Isack Hadjar, and singer Benjamin Biolay.
The event is not only a tribute but also a fundraiser, with all proceeds going to Archet Hospital in Nice. Last year, it raised 50,000 euros, and this year hopes to exceed that. Leclerc’s participation adds a poignant touch to the marathon, keeping the memory of Jules Bianchi alive in the sport they both loved.
