Charles Leclerc became the youngest Ferrari driver to take pole position at the 2019 Bahrain Grand Prix. He was driving in only his second race weekend for Ferrari after joining the team for the 2019 season.
Leclerc set the fastest qualifying time at the Bahrain International Circuit in a Ferrari SF90. His pole position made him the youngest Ferrari pole-sitter in Formula 1 history, surpassing records associated with earlier Ferrari stars.
He led much of the race and appeared set for his first Formula 1 victory. A power-unit problem later reduced his pace, and he finished third behind Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas. The result was Leclerc’s first Formula 1 podium.
Leclerc eventually earned his first Grand Prix win at the 2019 Belgian Grand Prix. He has remained one of Ferrari’s central drivers and is known for exceptional qualifying performances.