Charles Leclerc described his graduation to a Ferrari race seat as a “dream come true” following confirmation that he will race for the team in 2019.
Leclerc joined Ferrari’s young driver scheme in 2016 and went on to secure successive titles in GP3 and Formula 2, before stepping up to Formula 1 with Sauber for 2018.
Leclerc repeatedly answered questions about his Ferrari aspirations through this year and regularly replied that it would be a “dream” to secure a seat with the outfit.
On Tuesday the team confirmed that he has been given the nod over Kimi Raikkonen, who will join Sauber in place of the Monegasque youngster.
Leclerc thanked Ferrari and paid tribute to his father, who died last year, and his mentor Jules Bianchi, who sustained fatal injuries in a crash at the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix.
“Dreams do come true…,” Leclerc posted on social media.
“I'll be driving for Ferrari for the 2019 Formula 1 World Championship. I will be eternally grateful to Ferrari for the opportunity given, and to [manager] Nicolas Todt for supporting me since 2011.
“To a person that is not part of this world anymore but to whom I owe everything of what is happening to me, Papa.
“To Jules, thank you for all the things you learnt me, we will never forget you, and to all the persons that supported me and believed in me
“I will work harder than ever to not disappoint you. But first, there is a season to finish with an amazing team that gave me the opportunity to fight and show my potential. Let's go Sauber!”
His current team boss at Sauber, Frederic Vasseur, heaped praise on the 20-year-old.
“It has been a great pleasure to support Charles in his rookie year in Formula 1,” said Vasseur.
“Since his arrival, he has given the team great motivation. We have constantly improved and we will work hard until the end of this season to achieve the best possible results together.
“We are aware of Charles’ talent and are confident that he will have a bright future. We will keep on following him closely and we wish him the best on his path.”
See also: Feature – the rise and rise of Leclerc
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