Former Formula 1 driver David Coulthard has criticised Charles Leclerc for his approach to Grand Prix weekends, describing the Ferrari driver’s paddock routine as akin to a ‘leisurely family picnic’. Coulthard voiced his concerns on the ‘Up To Speed’ podcast, questioning Leclerc’s casual demeanour within the high-stakes environment of Formula 1 racing.
Coulthard, a 55-year-old veteran of Red Bull, McLaren, and Williams, specifically highlighted Leclerc’s frequent presence with his wife, Alexandra Saint Mleux, and their miniature long-haired dachshund, Leo, in the paddock.
Leclerc married Alexandra Saint Mleux earlier this year in February, and the couple is currently expecting their first child, with hints of the pregnancy emerging in August.
Coulthard stated, ‘You’ve got Charles Leclerc, who has been there for several years and is blindingly fast, a poster boy for a racing driver. Good-looking and he’s got all the family man, baby on the way, dog in the paddock… my opinion is that’s all a bit too much, quite frankly.’
He continued, ‘It’s not a weekend away picnic, is it? It’s a grand prix, it’s a serious business, it’s a dangerous business, but that’s probably me being of an older generation.’
In response to Coulthard’s remarks, Brittny Button, wife of 2009 F1 champion Jenson Button, offered a defence of Leclerc.
Brittny Button, who married Jenson Button in 2022 and has two children with him, shared her perspective on Instagram.
‘As an ex wag, I’m happy to see that Formula 1 is embracing the drivers partners/families more. The paddock was not a very welcoming place for women for so long, in my opinion this is a great and positive change.’
Leclerc is not the sole driver to bring family or pets to race weekends. Lewis Hamilton has regularly brought his dogs, Roscoe and Coco, to the paddock since 2013.
Pierre Gasly also brings animal companions, while George Russell, Oscar Piastri, and Carlos Sainz are frequently accompanied by their partners.
Championship leader Kimi Antonelli is often joined by his father, and Max Verstappen is also regularly seen with his father at races.
Despite Coulthard’s critique regarding his off-track routine, Leclerc’s recent performance on track has been strong.
The Monegasque driver has outscored Lewis Hamilton by 22 points over the last six Grands Prix.
Leclerc has secured one victory and four podium finishes during the current season, though he has also made notable errors in Barcelona, Monaco, and Italy.
He currently holds fifth position in the drivers’ championship, trailing teammate Lewis Hamilton by 24 points.
