Amazing Leclerc continues F1 breakthrough with first career points

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Sauber's Charles Leclerc made the most of an eventful and chaotic Azerbaijan Grand Prix with a flawless performance that delivered to the rookie a P6 finish and his first championship points.

The Frenchman launched his race from P13 on the grid, but skillfully muscled his way up to 8th within the first ten laps of the 51-lap race.

Leclerc continued to put in a strong and consistent performance thereafter, running under a one-stop strategy plan, to steadily move up another few spots.

The 20-year-old kept himself out of trouble, dodging the treacherous conditions to bring Sauber its best race finish since Felipe Nasr in Russia in 2015.

"It was an amazing race today – I am very happy with my result," said an ecstatic Leclerc.

"It was definitely eventful, with many incidents on track making it especially challenging and fun to drive.

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"I felt comfortable in the car, and did my best to gradually advance to the front of the midfield through the race. It is an incredible feeling to score points for the first time in Formula 1.

"As a team, we can see our potential, and know what our strengths are. I am very pleased, and look forward to continuing on this positive path."

Fred Vasseur, the Swiss outfit's team boss praised his young driver for a job well done.

"Charles scored his first points in Formula 1 today, finishing in P6," said the Frenchman.

"He had a strong pace and did a consistent job. It was a huge step for him to make and he can be proud of what he has achieved."

Leclerc's team mate Marcus Ericsson finished his race just outside the top-10, in 11th place, after a difficult afternoon which saw the Swede pick up some damage to his car as a result of an incident which occurred at the beginning of the race.

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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.