Leclerc, Albon and Pérez recall karting roots ahead of FIA's 70th anniversary

Charles Leclerc, Alexander Albon and Sergio Pérez have reflected on how karting shaped their careers, ahead of the FIA's planned celebration of the discipline's 70th anniversary. Speaking to the media before the Mexico City Grand Prix, the Ferrari, Williams and Cadillac drivers discussed the early experiences that helped them develop competitive instincts and teamwork.

Leclerc said karting taught the basics of racing, including working with a team, set-up, overtaking and handling pressure in qualifying. He noted that many current Formula 1 drivers raced against each other in karts 15 or 20 years ago, and said the passion and motivation of those days remain the same.

Albon, who occasionally competed against Leclerc in his younger years, described karting as the foundation of their profession. The drivers also highlighted the growing financial challenges facing young karting talents.