Charles Leclerc under FIA investigation for late press conference arrival at Monaco GP

Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc is under investigation by the FIA after arriving late to Thursday's official press conference at the Monaco Grand Prix, the same offense that has also landed McLaren's Lando Norris in trouble. Both drivers have been summoned to separate stewards' hearings on Friday morning, just before first practice.

Why it matters:

The timing is particularly awkward for Leclerc, who on Wednesday signed a long-term contract extension with Ferrari, committing beyond the 2030 season. A breach of protocol at his home race — where he won in 2024 — is not the headline he wanted.

The details:

• The Thursday press conference was scheduled for 14:30 local time but started a couple of minutes late after Leclerc and Norris arrived after the scheduled start.
• Leclerc is due to meet the stewards at 10:00 local time on Friday; Norris follows at 10:10.
• Both drivers face potential penalties, though fines or reprimands are more likely than sporting sanctions.
• Contract context: Leclerc's new deal keeps him at Ferrari beyond 2030, as confirmed by team principal Fred Vasseur, who praised the driver's growth and commitment.
• Leclerc last won a race at the 2024 United States Grand Prix and is still chasing a second victory at his home track.

What's next:

The stewards will decide on penalties after Friday morning's hearings. With FP1 starting shortly after, both drivers will be eager to put the distraction behind them and focus on track performance.

• A fine or reprimand is the likely outcome, but any grid penalty would be a major blow — especially for Leclerc in front of the tifosi.