Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc has missed media day at the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix after falling ill on Thursday.
The Monaco-born driver is expected to recover in time for Friday's practice sessions at the Imola circuit.
"Charles is feeling unwell and will not be coming to the track today," a Ferrari spokesperson confirmed. "He will rest and focus on recovering and we expect him to be in the car tomorrow."
Drivers are typically required to attend the circuit on Thursday before race weekends for media commitments and engineering meetings.
Charles Leclerc will miss media duties today
Reuters
However, it's not unusual for drivers to skip these obligations when unwell to ensure they're fit for the start of track action.
The Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix represents a home race for the Ferrari team.
Leclerc currently sits fifth in the drivers' championship standings after a challenging start to the season for Ferrari.
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His best result so far in the 2025 campaign came in Saudi Arabia, where he secured a third-place podium finish.
The Ferrari driver most recently finished seventh at the Miami Grand Prix.
That race was notable for team orders that saw Leclerc twice swap positions with team-mate Lewis Hamilton in the closing stages.
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Ferrari had a tense race in Miami
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The timing of these team instructions became a talking point after the race concluded.
This weekend's event at Imola holds special significance as it's one of two races in Italy this year where Ferrari will compete in front of their passionate home supporters.
The Imola circuit represents hallowed ground for the Ferrari team, with the passionate Italian fans known for their unwavering support of the Scuderia.
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Racing on home soil provides an extra emotional dimension for the team based in nearby Maranello.
Ferrari will be hoping Leclerc's illness proves to be a minor setback as they prepare for this crucial weekend.
The team has faced challenges in the early part of the 2025 season, making a strong showing at Imola particularly important.
Chalres Leclerc is looking to push Ferrari forward at home
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The Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix offers Ferrari a chance to perform in front of their devoted tifosi.
It represents the first of two opportunities to race in Italy this year, with the team eager to deliver results worthy of their heritage on home asphalt.
Practice for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix begins tomorrow with Leclerc expected to take full part in the weekend.
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