Ferrari's Charles Leclerc wins first F1 Virtual Grand Prix

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc is undoubtedly one of the most skilled Formula 1 drivers in the field today. During his season debut with Ferrari last year, the 22-year old Monegasque racing driver managed to finish 4th overall in the standings with 10 podium finishes and 2 race victories. He was even ahead of his more experienced teammate Sebastian Vettel. For 2020, it was expected that he could do even better and bag Ferrari’s first championship in years.

However, as we all know, the 2020 F1 season has been postponed due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. In place of a Grand Prix, the organizers have decided to hold online races or a Virtual Grand Prix. In this arrangement, current F1 drivers compete against stars, celebrities, and even former F1 champions.

Last night’s Virtual Grand Prix race saw Leclerc making his debut into the Formula 1 Esports scene. Not surprisingly, the young Ferrari driver proved to be skilled even in the virtual world as he won at his first-ever Virtual Grand Prix. It wasn’t an easy race though as he went up against Alex Albon, George Russell, Lando Norris, Nicholas Latifi and Antonio Giovinazzi. Other notable competitors in the field were Arthur, Leclerc’s younger brother, 2009 world champion Jenson Button, sim racer Jimmy Broadbent, and F2 driver Christian Lundgaard.

The 29-lap race was held at Melbourne's Albert Park circuit and even featured a qualifying run beforehand to determine grid position. Finishing behind Leclerc was Lundgaard and Russell, coming in 2nd and 3rd, respectively. Meanwhile, Leclerc’s brother finished 4th place. For those wondering, Jenson Button finished in 11th.

Want to catch the upcoming F1 Virtual Grand Prix live? The next race is set to be held over the Chinese Grand Prix weekend in two weeks' time.