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Charles Leclerc to Miss Emilia Romagna GP Media Day Due to Illness, Ferrari Confirms

Ferrari has officially confirmed that Charles Leclerc will not participate in Thursday’s media activities ahead of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix due to illness. The Monegasque driver is currently unwell and will remain away from the Imola paddock to rest and recover. The team is hopeful that he will be fit enough to take part in Friday’s free practice sessions, but his condition will continue to be assessed in the coming days.

This development comes at a pivotal point in the 2025 Formula 1 season. Leclerc, currently sitting fifth in the Drivers’ Championship with 58 points, has shown consistent pace but is still in search of his first win this year. His best result so far was a third-place finish at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. His absence from Thursday’s obligations raises concerns about his physical readiness for the weekend, especially as Ferrari aims to improve its standing in both championships.

Leclerc’s teammate, Lewis Hamilton, is also under the spotlight. The seven-time World Champion is experiencing a transitional season as he races for Ferrari at Imola for the first time. Currently seventh in the standings with 41 points, Hamilton has yet to secure a podium this year. With both drivers underperforming relative to expectations, pressure is mounting on Ferrari to deliver a strong result at their home Grand Prix.

Ferrari’s season has so far fallen short of expectations, with the team accumulating 94 points in the Constructors’ Championship—placing them behind Red Bull, Mercedes, and McLaren. A combination of technical issues and strategic missteps has hampered their campaign, and Leclerc’s illness threatens to further disrupt their momentum at a crucial time.

Beyond the track, the future of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix itself remains uncertain amid Formula 1’s global expansion. Speculation continues about whether Italy will retain both Imola and Monza on the calendar long-term. F1 President Stefano Domenicali has acknowledged Italy’s importance to the sport but has hinted that tough decisions lie ahead.

Leclerc has previously raced under difficult physical conditions, notably during the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix when he competed despite suffering from food poisoning—sharing a practice session with his brother Arthur in a moment that resonated with fans.

As the race weekend nears, all eyes will be on Leclerc’s recovery. A return to the car on Friday would be a welcome boost for Ferrari’s efforts to rebound. His presence is vital not only for his personal title aspirations but also for the Scuderia’s hopes of climbing back into championship contention.