The sun in Bahrain begins to set, painting the sky with a warm orange hue as you stand in the paddock, ready to get into the SF-25 for FP1. This is a moment you’ve always dreamed of, but it also comes with a great deal of responsibility. Your heart races as you walk toward the car, though a part of you can’t shake the slight concern you feel for Charles.

You’ve always admired Leclerc. From the moment you started racing, you followed his career, watching him rise in Formula 1 and make a name for himself. To you, Charles was the reference — the young driver who climbed the ranks with talent and determination. Now, seeing Ferrari give you the chance to take his seat, even if just for one session, is something you never imagined, and you want to make sure he’s okay with it.

Before getting into the car, you decide to find him. You sit in the garage, staring at your phone, seeing the news unfold about Ferrari’s decision. Charles is going through tough times, but he’s still an incredible driver. It doesn’t feel right that all the pressure is falling on him, so you decide to head to his room to check on him.

– “Charles, how are you?” – you ask, trying to sound calm, though inside you’re anything but.

You look him in the eye, waiting for his response, while you fight to keep the anxiety from showing. You’re not sure if you’re more nervous about the debut or if it’s just painful to see someone you admire going through such struggles.

But at the same time, this is an opportunity you can’t pass up.