We know Charles Leclerc for his incredible talent on Formula 1 circuits, but did you know that he recently swapped his F1 car for a fighter jet of the French Air Force?
Over two intense days, the Scuderia Ferrari driver tested his limits with the French Air Force, experiencing an adventure as extreme as it was unforgettable. From enduring G-forces to mid-air refueling and flying over Monaco, let’s dive into this extraordinary journey.
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Inside the world of the French Air Force’s Supersonic jets
Charles Leclerc had the unbelievable opportunity to fly in a Rafale, one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world, developed by French manufacturer Dassault. During these two days, he wasn’t just a passenger; he actually took control of the jet at low altitude, a rare experience for a civilian. “It was absolutely insane! The G-forces went beyond 8G, and the mid-air refueling was something incredible,” he shared in a video recounting the experience. For a driver accustomed to Formula 1 speeds that hover around 200 mph, this adventure offered a whole new perspective on velocity. This was the first reason why it’s his best experience, and he described it as “physically and mentally demanding” but also incredibly enriching—a perfect way for him to push his boundaries, far from the paddocks and yellow flags.
More photos from this incredible experience 🙂 pic.twitter.com/SnGwU1grIp
— Charles Leclerc (@Charles_Leclerc) November 17, 2024
From the cockpit to the sky of Monaco
What made this experience even more special for Leclerc was the opportunity to fly over his hometown, Monaco. Seeing the Principality from the cockpit of a Rafale was an emotional highlight for him. “Flying over Monaco in a fighter jet is a dream come true,” Charles said, clearly awestruck. Footage from the flight shows a smiling yet focused Leclerc, marveling at every moment of this adventure. “This is the kind of opportunity Formula 1 makes possible,” he added, emphasizing how fortunate he is to access such exclusive experiences thanks to his career. Unfortunately, the flight over Monaco was cut short as Leclerc started feeling unwell—and honestly, who could blame him?
An experience etched in memory (and on YouTube)
This entire event was organized by Canal+, the official Formula 1 broadcaster in France. Given his geographic proximity, the Monegasque driver has a special relationship with the French media. The entire adventure was documented in a video released by Leclerc himself. From mid-air refueling scenes to low-altitude flight sequences, the video offers a unique glimpse into the challenges and sensations of piloting a fighter jet.
“I’m going to do some crazy stuff!” Charles exclaims at the start of the video. And he wasn’t lying—every moment showcases the intensity of this experience. While far from the F1 circuits, this kind of adventure reveals a more human and daring side of the Ferrari driver. It’s a way for him to share intimate moments with his fans, reminding them of his passion for speed, whether it’s on the ground or in the air.
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This article explores Charles Leclerc’s thrilling journey into the world of supersonic jets, from experiencing G-forces beyond imagination to flying over his hometown, Monaco. It showcases how this adventure pushed his physical and mental limits, offering fans a glimpse into the extraordinary opportunities his F1 career provides.
Images: Charles Leclerc / Canal+
