There’s a new top dog in the F1 paddock

Charles Leclerc has added a new member to his traveling squad, one that the Ferrari driver has described as “very fast, very cool, very scary and very brave”.

The furry blond pup – who has his own VIP F1 pass – goes by the name of Leo Leclerc Saint Mieux, and the lively ankle-biter made his official paddock debut in Miami last weekend.

Leo won’t be able to attend all his dad’s races this season, but Leclerc’s partner Alexandra Saint Mieux will remain at home to look after the cute pooch’s needs.

So, it looks like Ferrari will have quite the four-legged canine line-up next season with Roscoe Hamilton and Leo Leclerc.

Let’s hope the Scuderia collects more than bone trophies in 2025.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.