WATCH: Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc spotted playing padel in Monaco

Several drivers have been seen playing padel over the past few weeks.

WATCH: Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc spotted playing padel in Monaco

Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen. (Images via Screenshot and Sky Sports)

The drivers are currently trying to relax as much as they can before a tiring three-week run of consecutive races. One of the ways they do so is by indulging in their hobbies. Recently, reigning world champion Max Verstappen and Ferrari star driver Charles Leclerc were recently seen in Monaco playing a game of padel with each other.

Verstappen and Leclerc were the prime competitors of the 2022 title. After seeing some intense competition between the two, it was a treat for the fans to see them playing and enjoying themselves together. Padel has been making its way into F1 paddocks for some time now. The sport is not only a good pastime, it also improves general fitness, stamina, and movement.

YouTube video

George Russell and Lando Norris have also been seen playing Padel quite often. Both of the drivers are very fond of the sport and see it as a way to reduce stress. Russell said, as per GP Blog, “It’s getting very competitive, and bumping into a few familiar faces. The second night, they said it sold out after hours, and when I arrived there, I had Lance playing on the court next to me.”

Also read: Nico Rosberg names Alex Albon as the perfect candidate to replace Sergio Perez at Red Bull in 2024

Charles Leclerc believes Ferrari can still catch up with Red Bull

After their brief title chase in 2022, Ferrari fell off hard in 2023. The Maranello-based team was struggling in the mid to lower order of the standings at the start of the season. However, post-summer break, they turned things around a bit. From their podium finish in Monza to the Singapore victory, they are now in P2 contention in the constructors’ championship. Now, Leclerc has claimed that the Scuderia might still have a chance against Red Bull.

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc
Charles Leclerc (Credits: Autosport)

Leclerc said that the team learned a lot about their weakness at Zandvoort. He said that while teams like Red Bull and McLaren are far ahead, Ferrari is making optimistic developments and will catch up with them in some time.

“All in all, I think we are more happy with what we’ve learned with the distance to Red Bull. Because I think with what we learned, we can take a significant step in the future. This will hopefully help us to close the gap to Red Bull as soon as possible,” said Leclerc.

Keep reading: